Exodus 31:17

  1. Home
  2. KJV Bible
  3. Exodus 31
  4. Exodus 31:17

Old Testament

Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

New Testament

Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 Peter 2 Peter 1 John 2 John 3 John Jude Revelation

Chapter

Exodus 1 Exodus 2 Exodus 3 Exodus 4 Exodus 5 Exodus 6 Exodus 7 Exodus 8 Exodus 9 Exodus 10 Exodus 11 Exodus 12 Exodus 13 Exodus 14 Exodus 15 Exodus 16 Exodus 17 Exodus 18 Exodus 19 Exodus 20 Exodus 21 Exodus 22 Exodus 23 Exodus 24 Exodus 25 Exodus 26 Exodus 27 Exodus 28 Exodus 29 Exodus 30 Exodus 31 Exodus 32 Exodus 33 Exodus 34 Exodus 35 Exodus 36 Exodus 37 Exodus 38 Exodus 39 Exodus 40

Verse

Exodus 31:1 Exodus 31:2 Exodus 31:3 Exodus 31:4 Exodus 31:5 Exodus 31:6 Exodus 31:7 Exodus 31:8 Exodus 31:9 Exodus 31:10 Exodus 31:11 Exodus 31:12 Exodus 31:13 Exodus 31:14 Exodus 31:15 Exodus 31:16 Exodus 31:17 Exodus 31:18

Exodus 31:17 KJV

It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.

Previous Verse
« Exodus 31:16
Next Verse
Exodus 31:18 »

Exodus 31:17 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Exodus 31:17

Verse (Exodus 31:17): "It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed."

Introduction

This verse encapsulates the purpose of the Sabbath and highlights the significance of divine rest. It serves as a reminder of God's creative activity and His established covenant with the people of Israel. Engaging with this text allows pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars to reshape their understanding of rest, sanctity, and the nature of God’s relationship with creation.

Contextual Analysis

The context of Exodus 31 is critical. It comes at a point where God is addressing Moses about the building of the tabernacle, emphasizing the need for divine rest and human imitation of that rest. Observing the Sabbath is tied to God's work in creation and serves as a covenant mark for Israel.

The Importance of the Sabbath

Matthew Henry comments that the Sabbath is not merely a day of rest but a divine institution, given for the benefit of mankind. This is reflected in the language of “a sign,” indicating its role as a marker of the special relationship between God and Israel.

Creation Reflection

Albert Barnes notes that the reference to the six days of creation serves a dual purpose: reminding Israel of the origins of their worship and hierarchizing their understanding of time and work. The creation narrative imparts theological significance to the rhythm of labor and rest.

Theological Insights

This verse is rich in theological implications concerning the nature of God and humanity. It highlights God as Creator, the establishment of time, and the concept of rest as essential to man's existence. It also reflects the idea that rest is not idleness but refreshment—an active engagement with God’s goodness.

God’s Rest

Adam Clarke elaborates on the phrase "was refreshed" suggesting that God’s rest on the seventh day represents completions and affirmations of a created order. It illustrates that God’s work leads to a state of goodness and satisfaction, demonstrating the importance of rest as a divine model for humanity.

Covenantal Significance

The verse positions the Sabbath as a covenantal sign, a concept noted by Matthew Henry. This function serves not only as a reminder of God’s original creation but also as a perpetual symbol of His covenant with the Israelites, reaffirming their identity and their obligation towards divine worship.

Practical Implications for Believers

Understanding Exodus 31:17 brings forth several practical applications:

  • The Value of Rest: In a fast-paced world, believers are reminded of the theological and personal necessity of rest.
  • Covenantal Living: The observance of the Sabbath fosters a deeper sense of covenantal identity and a commitment to living in accordance with God’s will.
  • Reflective Worship: Like God’s rest after creation, observance of the Sabbath should encourage worship and reflection on His deeds.

Conclusion

Exodus 31:17 serves as a cornerstone of Judeo-Christian belief regarding work, rest, and the significance of God's creative acts. This verse invites deeper reflection on our covenant with God, urging believers to emulate divine rest in their lives. As we study this passage, we understand that it teaches about much more than a day of the week; it outlines an enduring relationship between the Creator and His creation.

Exodus 31 (KJV) Verse Selection

Exodus 31:1 Exodus 31:2 Exodus 31:3 Exodus 31:4 Exodus 31:5 Exodus 31:6 Exodus 31:7 Exodus 31:8 Exodus 31:9 Exodus 31:10 Exodus 31:11 Exodus 31:12 Exodus 31:13 Exodus 31:14 Exodus 31:15 Exodus 31:16 Exodus 31:17 Exodus 31:18

KJV Bible Books

KJV Bible Books and Chapters »