Christian Sabbath

The work critiques the common understanding of the Christian day of rest, arguing against its conflation with the Jewish Sabbath. It asserts that the observance of a day of rest was not obligatory for early Christians, many of whom were slaves or in positions requiring work under non-Christian authorities. The text emphasizes that the Jewish Sabbath commemorated creation, while the Christian observance marks the resurrection and the beginning of a new creation. The author references Luther's perspective on the day as one of spiritual activity rather than mere cessation of labor, advocating for its observance based on its purpose for both body and soul. The early church distinguished this day from fasting, promoting joy and communal prayer rather than individual lamentation. The text critiques the historical evolution of the church's stance on the Sabbath, noting how political influences led to a shift in its character. It highlights the tension between maintaining a sacred day and the encroachment of secular interests, particularly in the context of the English Reformation and subsequent political developments. The author expresses frustration with those who impose strict observances that undermine the spirit of the day, advocating for a balance that allows for both rest and necessary activities. The work concludes with a call for a respectful observance of Sunday, opposing both excessive restrictions and the commercialization of the day, while emphasizing the importance of preserving the integrity of the Christian tradition.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1824 · Genre: Theological Essay, Philosophical Discourse, Historical Analysis · 864 words

First lines

How grossly misunderstood the genuine character of the Christian sabbath, or Lord's day, seems to be even by the church! To confound it with the Jewish sabbath, or to rest its observance upon the fourth commandment, is, in my judgment, heretical, and would so have been considered in the primitive church. That cessation from labour on the Lord's day could not have been absolutely incumbent on Christians for two centuries after Christ, is apparent; because during that period the greater part of the Christians were either slaves or in official situations under Pagan masters or superiors, and had duties to perform for those who did not recognize the day. And we know that St. Paul sent back Onesimus to his master, and told every Christian slave, that, being a Christian, he was free in his mind indeed, but still must serve his earthly master, although he might laudably seek for his personal freedom also. If the early Christians had refused to work on the Lord's day, rebellion and civil war must have been the immediate consequences. But there is no notice of any such cessation.

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Christian Sabbath is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1824 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

• Work type: Essay
• Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
• Date: 1824 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Theological Essay, Philosophical Discourse, Historical Analysis, Religious Critique, Sociopolitical Commentary
• Length: 864 words
• Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Similar titles

• The Lord Coming To His Temple by Charles Kingsley
• The Doxology by Charles Kingsley
• The Letter And The Spirit by Charles Kingsley
• Worship by Charles Kingsley
• The Law Of The Lord by Charles Kingsley
• The Lords Prayer by Charles Kingsley

Genres

• Theological Essay — The work discusses the nature and observance of the Christian Sabbath, focusing on theological interpretations and implications.
• Philosophical Discourse — It engages with philosophical ideas about rest, labor, and the moral implications of Sabbath observance.
• Historical Analysis — The text examines the historical context of Sabbath observance in early Christianity and its evolution over time.
• Religious Critique — It critiques contemporary practices and beliefs regarding the Sabbath, particularly in relation to Jewish traditions.

Tags

Christianity · Sabbath · theology · religion · spirituality · faith · worship · rest · tradition · scripture · moral philosophy · sacred time

More by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

• Expostulation and Reply (1817)
• The Tables Turned (1798)
• Animal Tranquillity and Decay (1816)
• Goody Blake and Harry Gill (1798)
• The Last of the Flock (1815)
• Lines Left Upon a Seat in a Yew-Tree, which Stands Near the Lake of Estwaithe, on a Desolate Part of the Shore, Yet Commanding a Beautiful Prospect (1818)
• The Foster-Mother's Tale (1815)
• The Thorn (1798)
• All works by Samuel Taylor Coleridge