Tastes of What is to Come
Ten Commandments
June 23, 2024
Rev. Dr. Gabe Sylvia
The sermon calls the church to faithfully observe the Sabbath/Lord's Day (Deut. 5:12–15; Heb. 4) as a weekly foretaste of our already-and-not-yet redemption in Christ, a spiritual protection from the world that shapes family practice, corporate worship, and preparation for communion.
Summary
Preaching from Deuteronomy 5 and Hebrews 4, the sermon warns against neglecting the fourth commandment and urges the church to keep the Lord's Day holy because it uniquely invites believers to rest in what Christ has already accomplished and to look forward to final redemption. The Lord's Day is presented as a divine 'appetizer' or foretaste of future promise, a power washer for the soul that deepens awareness of Creator and creation, and a necessary discipline that families must model by making corporate worship a priority. Practical implications include honoring weekly rest, examining ourselves before the Lord's Supper, and praying for God's help to both enjoy present salvation and anticipate eternal rest with Christ.
Key Points
- Texts: Deuteronomy 5:12–15 and Hebrews 4; Sabbath = Lord's Day
- Main point: The Lord's Day protects believers and highlights both our already redemption in Christ and our future rest
- Analogy: God gives foretaste/appetizers now of what He promises later
- Meaning of rest: Not merely enjoyable activities, but spiritual resting that focuses on Creator and salvation
- The Sabbath’s purpose: deepen understanding of what Christ has done and point forward to final redemption
- Practical concern: Families — when parents treat church as optional, children will too; corporate worship is essential
- Theological link: Hebrews uses 'rest' as a synonym for salvation and urges pursuit of the promised rest
- Communion and discipline: Examine yourselves before the Lord's Supper; Paul leads in the Lord’s Prayer
- Pastoral plea and prayer: Ask God to help the congregation rest, behold God's glory, and not lose sight of eternal life with Jesus
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