Ezekiel 20:20
And hallow my sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God.
Ezekiel 20:20 (KJV)
Context
The book of Ezekiel contains messages from God to the Israelites exiled in Babylon. Through the prophet Ezekiel, God recounts their history of rebellion and idolatry, yet He calls them back to holiness. In Ezekiel 20:20, the command to hallow the Sabbaths comes as part of this larger appeal, urging the people to return to the covenant relationship that their disobedience had broken.
Meaning
To “hallow” the Sabbaths means to keep them holy, set apart for God. This involves resting from ordinary work and devoting the day to worship and spiritual duties, both privately and publicly. The Sabbath was not merely a ritual; it was a sign between God and His people, a visible reminder of their covenant relationship. As a sign, it pointed to present and future blessing and set Israel apart as His chosen people.
The purpose of this sign is clear: “that ye may know that I am the Lord your God.” The Sabbath was given so that the people would recognize God’s character and His claim on their lives. It echoed the earlier promise in Ezekiel 20:12, where God said He gave them His Sabbaths as a sign that they might know He is the Lord who sanctifies them. The Sabbath was a continual lesson in knowing God as the One who sets His people apart.
Biblical connections
The Sabbath commandment was first given in Exodus 20:8-11, where it was tied to God’s rest after creation. In Ezekiel 20:20, the Sabbath again serves as a sign of God’s saving work and His covenant faithfulness.
The significance of the Sabbath: The Sabbath was a day of rest and worship, reminding Israel of God’s creative power.
The Sabbath as a sign: Observing the Sabbath set Israel apart as God’s covenant people and reinforced their commitment to Him.
Spiritual principles: While Christian traditions differ on the specific observance of the Sabbath, the underlying principles of rest, worship, and dependence on God remain relevant.
Application
For believers today, the principle behind the Sabbath still applies. While the New Testament does not enforce the Sabbath as a legal requirement, we can prioritize regular rest, worship, and time with God. This may include setting aside specific times for prayer, Bible reading, church attendance, and acts of service. Such practices help us depend on God and experience spiritual renewal.
Reflection
The ultimate purpose of the Sabbath, as stated in Ezekiel 20:20, is to know that the Lord is our God. By dedicating time to seek Him, we come to know His character, experience His presence, and grow in faith. The Sabbath is a gift that points us to the God who sanctifies and redeems His people.
