Thanksgiving for Jesus the Messiah | Sabbath for Rest | 2 November 2025

In this opening message from the Thanksgiving for Jesus the Messiah series, Robin Kinstead begins with Leviticus 23:1–3 and Mark 2:23–28, exploring God’s design for Sabbath rest. He explains that the Sabbath is not a burden but a gracious gift from God—an invitation to rest, rejoice, and remember His goodness. Robin traces the rhythm of work and rest from creation to Christ, showing that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath who fulfills its true purpose: to give His people rest from striving and peace with God. He warns against entitlement and self-reliance, reminding us that gratitude is the antidote to both, and encourages believers to see all of life/work, worship, and rest—as acts of thanksgiving. Ultimately, Robin calls the church to trust God enough to stop, to honour Him through balanced rhythms of labour and rest, and to look forward to the eternal rest promised in Christ.   5 Questions to Think About: How does God’s creation rhythm of work and rest shape your own weekly patterns (Genesis 2:2–3; Leviticus 23:3)? What does Jesus mean when He says, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27)? In what ways might entitlement or busyness prevent you from experiencing true Sabbath rest? How can you turn your everyday work—whether paid, unpaid, or study—into worship that honours God? What practices help you rest in Jesus spiritually and look forward to the eternal rest He promises (Hebrews 4:9–11)?   3 Things to Take Away from the Message: Rest is a gift, not a rule — God designed the Sabbath for our good, as a time to rejoice in His provision and presence (Leviticus 23:3; Mark 2:27). Jesus is our true rest — He frees us from striving and gives us peace with God through His finished work on the cross (Matthew 11:28–29; Hebrews 4:9–10). Worship includes work and rest — Both are opportunities to thank and honour God, trusting Him with our time, energy, and priorities (Colossians 3:17).