Rethinking Rest - Gregory Hall pt 2

Rethinking Rest

Gregory Hall pt 2

As Christians, we have heard the continuous arguments back and forth about a “Day of Rest.” Another term used is as “Sabbath of Rest.” The arguments form around if that is simply an Old Testament tradition that no longer is applicable for this modern age or Saturday’s are the day that needs to be recognized or Sunday is the day true “Christians” should observe because it is in recognition of the resurrection of Christ.

The divides are deep on this topic. They have resulted in denominational splits. These arguments have split families. These arguments have affected peoples employment opportunities as well.

To help us understand the true Biblical concept of REST is our guest, Gregory Hall. Greg was a pastor for 10 years and he served as an adjunct professor at a few local universities where he lives in the Northwest US. He has a podcast called, “Rethinking Scripture” and is the author of a great book, “Rethinking Rest: Why Our Approach to Sabbath Isn’t Working.”

There are many professions, I was in the military and also in law enforcement, and we were required to work rotating schedules that would include working on some Saturday’s and Sunday’s. Some were on, some off. Hospitals and other professions do the same. How does the Biblical “day of rest” and the “Sabbath” apply to those professions? Are people in “sin” because of their work schedule?

So, using that concept, that does not apply to running or swimming if it allows to “mentally rest” or maybe even things like cutting the grass or doing chores around the house If that gives us peace that would be considered “rest?”

At the end of your book, you have a very unique section that I found amazingly interesting. It made me think. You asked the question, “What did God do on the 8^th Day?” Can you share that insight with us, please?

I see in your book where you discuss Plato and his description of “shadows.” That caught my attention because I recently did a teaching on the “types and shadows” that Moses was told to pattern the elements of the Tabernacle after. A shadow has no substance. It is only an indicator that something of substance is behind it. The Sabbath is mentioned as one of those shadows. How should we interpret those references concerning the commandment to observe the Sabbath day if it is a shadow of the true rest of God?

Drop down into the show notes and order your copy of Greg’s book now. While you are there, reach out to Greg. Check out his podcast, it’s an interesting listen as well. Amen!