In this sixth installment of the Ten Commandments series, John Ritenbaugh reiterates that God gave the Sabbath (a sanctified, set- apart period of recurring time) to His people in order that they come to know Him intimately, learning to live as He lives. Idolatry, scattering, and captivity have always been the natural consequences of Sabbath breaking. Freedom from bondage and liberty are the natural consequences of Sabbath keeping. God gives relatively few broad principles concerning how the Sabbath is to be kept. Our Elder Brother has given us specific examples of how to use Sabbath time properly, having begun His redemptive liberating ministry on the Sabbath and ending it on a preparation day. Christ emphasized the liberating or redemptive intent (or burden- relieving aspect) of the Sabbath. Acts of liberation or release from bondage occur frequently on the Sabbath Day. We need to follow our Elder Brother's example of relieving burdens.

Acts of liberation Acceptable Year of the Lord Asceticism Blessing, Sabbath as common Day Deliverance from danger to safety Holy Time Idolatry Intent of Sabbath 1,121 rules Jesus example Liberation from bondage Liberating intent of the Sabbath Memorial of creation Opportunities to do good Pharisees Redemptive aspect of the Sabbath Sabbath Proper use of Sabbath breaking Sanctification of Seventh Day