In our theological categories we are often used to the idea of circumcision as the sign of the covenant. It is part of the covenant God makes with Abraham, no doubt. But here in Exodus 31 we see that the Sabbath is proclaimed as the sign of the covenant. Let's look briefly at the similarities and distinctions between circumcision and the Sabbath.
Both are outward and visible signs. Circumcision changes a man's appearance. Observance of the Sabbath changes visible behavior. Both are appropriated truly by faith. Neither would seem to accomplish anything productive. Both are commanded by God. But there is a significant difference. While circumcision is something that man does as a sign of his obedience, the Sabbath is something that God does. It is God who provides the additional food needed by people who are not going to work one day of the week, or one year of seven years. It is God who shows himself to be the living God who sustains his people. They are to keep his Sabbath and he promises they will live through it.
Jesus shows himself to be the Lord of the Sabbath. He himself becomes our Sabbath-day's rest, giving us rest from the toils with sin. He himself promises to sustain us and bring us into his rest. He takes this sign, a day of rest, and one of seven years spent in rest, and fulfills it, giving his people an eternity of rest. May we have the grace to rest in our Lord and Savior.
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