sabbath days were a shadow of things to come (colossians 2:16-17)
Introduction:
1. These instructions apply to Christians living under the Lord's new covenant. 2. We are to avoid being judged on the basis of issues that related to worship under the old covenant, including: a. meat and drink b. observing special occasions such as holy days, new moons, and Sabbath days. 3. While these issues played an important role in worship under the old covenant, they were "a shadow of things to come." 4. In our lesson we are emphasizing the fact that "Sabbath days were a shadow of things to come."
Discussion:
I. WHEN WE STUDY MATTERS PERTAINING TO WORSHIP WE MUST APPLY THE GUIDELINES THAT JESUS GAVE IN JOHN 4:23-24
A. First, worship is to be directed to the Father. 1. Jesus also emphasized this guideline in Matthew 4:10. 2. Worship is not to be directed to the objects in the sky, nature, idols and images, people, angels, and Satan. B. Second, the Father is to be worshipped "in spirit" [with the proper attitude and disposition]. C. Third, the Father is to be worshipped "in truth" [according to the Lord's instructions in the New Testament]. D. This last guideline given by Christ leads us to our next point.
II. GOD IS NO LONGER TO BE WORSHIPPED ACCORDING TO THE INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN IN THE LAW OF MOSES
A. The Law of Moses has been taken out of the way (Colossians 2:14). B. The holy days of the Law of Moses are no longer in effect (Colossians 2:16-17). C. Those who follow the Law of Moses have fallen from grace (Galatians 5:4). D. At one time, Moses was God's spokesman; however, Jesus now occupies that position (Hebrews 1:1-2). E. To please God, we must listen to Christ (Matthew 17:5; Colossians 3:16-17). 1. Christ's Word is the New Testament (Hebrews 9:15). 2. Those who follow the Lord's law will be blessed (James 1:25). 3. The Lord's law is not to be altered (Revelation 22:18-19). F. Let us turn our attention to the time of worship.
III. THE NEW TESTAMENT RECOGNIZES THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK AS "THE LORD'S DAY"
A. Some special events pertaining to Christianity occurred on the first day of the week. 1. Jesus was resurrected on the first day of the week (Luke 24:1-3). 2. The church was established on the first day of the week (Acts 2). B. Early Christians ate the Lord's Supper on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7). C. Christians are to give on the first day of the week (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). D. John mentioned "the Lord's day" in Revelation 1:10. E. Although God's people are to assemble for worship on the Lord's day, we may also assemble "daily" for instruction and devotion (Acts 2:42, 46a).
Conclusion:
1. Worshipping God is a special blessing for His children, but it is also a serious responsibility. 2. As we seek to follow instructions relating to Christian worship, let us remember that "Sabbath days were a shadow of things to come."
