Project Description

2014/01

What can I do on a Sunday?

The predominant view in society today, and sadly in some Christian circles, is that there should be no restrictions placed upon the Lord’s Day, the Christian Sabbath. In a world that is increasingly driven by secular and commercial interests, it is more important than ever for the Christian to preserve this day, and so honour the Lord.  But how do we, as Christians, approach this day?

The fourth commandment gives us guidance. Exodus 20:8 tells us to “keep it holy”.  These words give the thought of honouring, guarding and preserving the day, a day separate from the others, a special day. Sometimes emphasis is placed on what we are not to do on the Lord’s Day, but focusing only on the negative may cause us to lose sight of what this day is all about.  It is to be spent in a positive way, devoted unto the Lord. Mark 2:28 affirms that the Saviour is “Lord also of the Sabbath”.  The Sabbath belongs to the Lord and therefore should be wholly given to Him.  To take a liberal view of this day is to take away from the Lordship of Christ.

The Christian should prioritise the first day of the week. For the world, Monday is the first day of the week, and many calendars reflect that.  However, for the believer, all other days should be viewed as a build up and preparation for that first day.  Preparation involves planning ahead with shopping, having food and fuel in place, and endeavouring to have all other tasks completed by the end of the week. Preparation of heart is also vital, so that like the apostle John, we should seek to be found in “the Spirit on the Lord’s Day” (Revelation 1:10). It is necessary to be ready spiritually that we might benefit as much as possible from the day.

The Christian should always be in the house of God on His day unless providentially hindered.  The only legitimate hindrances to attendance are those works of necessity and mercy. The general rule is that we are to assemble with God’s people (Hebrews 10:25).
As well as being at public worship both morning and evening, time should be spent in personal devotion. This may involve not just reading the Bible but taking the opportunity to study it in more depth. Also, reading Christian literature, such as missionary biographies, is a profitable way to spend any additional time.  Isaiah 58:13-15 urges that we do not our “own pleasure” or our “own ways”.  Rather it is a day for delighting oneself in the Lord, which means that the Christian is engaging in that which is conducive to holiness of life.  If we have a doubt about any activity or practice, it would be good to ask ourselves: ‘Will this help me to grow in grace?’

The Lord’s Day should be special for the whole family. Duties and responsibilities throughout the week may make it difficult to get the family together for devotions, but even families with very young children should find time to use this first day profitably, instilling in little minds the importance of the day.

It is good not to make it a day of drudgery for children, lest they could come to despise the Lord’s Day and view it as a chore.  A suggestion here would be to do something together that is perhaps not done on the other days.  I heard of one family that toasted bread on the open fire at the end of the Lord’s Day! A safer option might be a special supper or some food treat.  This way, children will be encouraged to look forward to the day.

The Lord’s Day presents opportunities for evangelism, not only in meetings, but by tract distribution and personal witness. Giving time to witness for the Lord is time well spent.

Remember that our conduct on the Lord’s Day sends out a message to the unbelieving world around us. When those in our neighbourhood see us keeping this day special, gathering together and seeking to honour the Lord, it is an invaluable witness. There is perhaps no more regular testimony to the world, showing that we honour the Lord, by keeping this day different.