Here you will find the questions, answers and Scripture proofs for the Shorter Catechism, together with a brief explanation.

    • Q.59

      Genesis 2:3, Luke 23:56, Acts 20:7, 1 Corinthians 16:1 & John 20:19-26

      The Westminster Shorter Catechism

      Q. 59. Which day of the seven hath God appointed to be the weekly Sabbath?

      A. From the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, God appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and the first day of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian Sabbath.

      Scripture References:

      Genesis 2:3
      Luke 23:56
      Acts 20:7
      1 Corinthians 16:1,2
      John 20:19-26

      The Westminster Shorter Catechism in Modern English:

      Q.59. Which day of the week has God designated as the Sabbath?

      A. From the beginning of the world until the resurrection of Christ, God established the seventh day of the week as the Sabbath. From that time until the end of the world the first day of the week is the Christian Sabbath.

      Questions

      1. Why was the seventh day appointed by God as the sabbath day?

      The seventh day was appointed as the sabbath day because it was the day he rested from the works of creation.

      2. When did God appoint that day as the sabbath?

      He appointed the seventh day as the sabbath right after his works of creation. (See Genesis 2:2)

      3. How long was the seventh day to be observed as the sabbath day?

      It was to be observed as the sabbath day until Christ rose from the dead. (See Matthew 28:1)

      4. What day was to be observed from that time, according to the Word of God?

      The first day of the week was to be observed and is to be observed by Christians until the end of the world.

      5. How can we be sure that the first day is to be observed as the sabbath?

      We can be sure because it was instituted by Jesus Christ and has been observed by Christians ever since that time.

      6. Is there any correlation between the sabbath of the Old Testament and the sabbath instituted after the resurrection of Christ?

      Yes, there is a correlation in that God rested on the seventh day after his work of creation and Christ rested on the first day after going through the suffering that brought about man’s redemption. (Hebrews 4:10)

      7. Are there other Scriptural proofs of the first day of the week being the new Sabbath?

      Yes, there are other proofs such as the Lord putting his name on the first day; Paul speaking of taking the collection on the first day of the week; the disciples being assembled together on the first day of the week. (Rev. 1:10; 1 Cor. 16:1,2; John 20:19; Acts 20:7)