SHABBAT FEB 2009.pdf - Kanaan Ministries

INTRODUCTIONThis book is one in a series drafted in order to present a specific attribute ofthe Old Testament which we believe is still highly relevant today.This book’s purpose is to reveal the essence / purpose of Shabbat.Many of these Old Testament principles can be brought to the attention of theBody of Messiah with some degree of success.Obviously the influence of the teaching of• replacement theology,• grace versus lawdo not make it any easier for this message to be accepted.One aspect of God’s Word, the Shabbat, however, seems to be like theproverbial red flag to the bull.It seems to draw out the quickest response by far from the:• religious spirit,• “righteousness only” groups.One of the main reasons for the aggressive level of opposition is the degreeto which man-made ritual and legalism that has been accumulated on top ofthe Shabbat.The rabbi’s have added their own “man made rules” called “fences around theTorah” in an effort to help others understand / know what to do.New Testament leadership has continued down this same path of legalism,the only subtle difference being a debate as to whether it should be kept onFriday / Saturday (as the Jews believe) or on a Sunday.We are going to have to peel many layers of man-made rules off (in this caseI think we are dealing with an onion) which will certainly cause the tears toflow before we get to the bottom of this beautiful time of “Appointment” withGod.I believe that it is important to make a statement of faith. Shabbat is thoughtto be a day of stifling rules, regulations and restrictions.The reality is that God chooses to “bless” mankind – Man is therefore to livewithout limitation or restriction.If we truly experience this release of blessing in our lives, we will go toShabbat with an eager anticipation of a time of great joy, where we can enjoythis precious gift from God.6