Ellen G. White teaches that keeping the Sabbath is both a spiritual and practical commitment. Here are the key points from her writings:
1. Preparation and Spiritual Significance: Sabbath observance should be prepared for throughout the week, not just as a legal requirement but as a spiritual practice that influences all aspects of life. Those who keep the Sabbath as a sign of their relationship with God will reflect His principles in their daily lives (
6T 353.4).
2. The 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;
1SP 236.2;
PP 307.1).
3. Distinction and Holiness: The Sabbath sets God’s people apart. To truly keep it holy, individuals must themselves be holy, becoming partakers of Christ’s righteousness through faith (
DA 283.3).
4. Historical Continuity: The Sabbath was observed by Adam, the patriarchs, and the Israelites, and even in times of apostasy, some remained faithful to Sabbath observance (
4SP 285.2;
GC 453.1).
5. Practical Observance: Six days are given for labor, but the seventh is reserved for God. Preparation should be made before Sabbath begins, and only necessary work—such as caring for the sick—is permitted. Unnecessary work should be avoided (
HS 217.3).
6. Works of Mercy: While secular work is to be suspended, acts of mercy and benevolence are in harmony with the Sabbath’s purpose (2SP 193).
7. The Sabbath as a Sign: The Sabbath is a sign between God and His people, showing that He is the one who sanctifies them (Exodus 31:13-17;
PK 179.3).
In summary, Ellen White emphasizes that Sabbath keeping involves both outward observance and inward holiness, preparation throughout the week, refraining from secular work, engaging in worship and acts of mercy, and recognizing the Sabbath as a sign of our relationship with God. The Sabbath is to be kept holy as a memorial of creation and a sign of sanctification.
References:
- White, E. G. (1900). Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 353.
- White, E. G. (1888). The Great Controversy, p. 434, 453.
- White, E. G. (1870). Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 236; vol. 2, p. 193; vol. 4, p. 285.
- White, E. G. (1864). Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 266.
- White, E. G. (1890). Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 307.
- White, E. G. (1898). The Desire of Ages, p. 283.
- White, E. G. (1878). Historical Sketches, p. 217.
- White, E. G. (1917). Prophets and Kings, p. 179, 181.
If you’d like more specific details or practical instructions from her writings, feel free to ask!