Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #22 — Acceptable Sabbath “Work”

Picture: Counsel #22 — Acceptable Sabbath “Work” CCW 99.1

When God calls us to “rest” on the Sabbath, it’s easy to wonder—what about the jobs that can’t just stop? If doctors, nurses, or caregivers clock out, who would care for the sick? If firefighters or police stayed home, who would protect people in danger? Even closer to home—why is it fine for the potluck crew to wash dishes after a Sabbath meal, or for pastors to “work” by preaching and leading worship? CCW 99.2

The truth is, some work can wait until tomorrow, but some can’t. Life-saving, people-serving work doesn’t pause on the Sabbath. Back in Bible times, Israel still had to feed animals, care for kids, and tend to the sick—just like today. The key is learning the difference between necessary and secular work.^[157] CCW 99.3

The heart of Sabbath isn’t a checklist—it’s about honoring God with your choices. Sometimes, that means stepping back to rest. Other times, it means serving someone in need. CCW 99.4

Jesus said it best: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”^[158] CCW 99.5

“Or have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless?” Matthew 12:5 CCW 99.6

“The work of the priests in connection with the sacrificial offerings was increased upon the Sabbath, yet in their holy work in the service of God they did not violate the fourth commandment of the decalogue.” Ellen White in The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 2, p. 193 CCW 99.7

Reflect: Why would God prohibit secular work on the Sabbath but allow religious work? CCW 99.8