Ellen G. White’s teachings on keeping the Sabbath emphasize both its spiritual significance and practical observance. Here are the key points from her writings: 1. **Preparation and Spiritual Significance**: Sabbath observance is more than a legal duty; it is a time for spiritual renewal. Throughout the week, believers are encouraged to prepare for the Sabbath, seeking its sanctifying influence and companionship with Christ (6T 353.4). 2. **The Fourth Commandment**: The Sabbath commandment is central in the Ten Commandments: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy... the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God...” (Exodus 20:8-11; GC88 434.2; PP 307.1). 3. **Distinction and Holiness**: The Sabbath set Israel apart as God’s worshipers. To truly keep the Sabbath holy, individuals must also seek personal holiness through Christ’s righteousness (DA 283.3). 4. **Historical Continuity**: The Sabbath was observed by Adam, the patriarchs, and Israel. Even in times of apostasy, faithful people continued to honor the Sabbath (4SP 285.2; GC 453.1-2). 5. **Preparation Day**: The day before the Sabbath is for preparation, ensuring that all unnecessary work is finished so the Sabbath can be kept holy. Works of necessity and mercy, such as caring for the sick, are permitted (HS 217.3). 6. **Jesus and the Sabbath**: Jesus kept the Sabbath and taught His disciples to do the same, understanding its true purpose and how it should be honored (SJ 67). 7. **Works of Mercy**: While secular work should be set aside, acts of mercy and kindness are in harmony with the Sabbath’s purpose (2SP 193). 8. **Perpetual Sign**: The Sabbath is a perpetual sign between God and His people, reminding them of their relationship with Him as Creator and Redeemer (PK 179.3, 181.1). **Summary**: Ellen White teaches that keeping the Sabbath involves spiritual preparation, refraining from secular work, engaging in worship and acts of mercy, and recognizing the Sabbath as a sign of holiness and connection with God. The Sabbath is to be kept holy in both spirit and practice, as a lasting covenant between God and His people. --- **References:** - White, E. G. (1900). *Testimonies for the Church*, vol. 6, p. 353.4. - White, E. G. (1888). *The Great Controversy*, p. 434.2, 453.1-2. - White, E. G. (1890). *Patriarchs and Prophets*, p. 307.1. - White, E. G. (1898). *The Desire of Ages*, p. 283.3. - White, E. G. (1884). *The Spirit of Prophecy*, vol. 4, p. 285.2; vol. 2, p. 193. - White, E. G. (1878). *Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists*, p. 217.3. - White, E. G. (1896). *The Story of Jesus*, p. 67. - White, E. G. (1917). *Prophets and Kings*, p. 179.3, 181.1. If you’d like more specific details or practical instructions from her writings, feel free to ask!