A Scripture Catechism
in the
Method of the Assembly's

by Matthew Henry

Q. 62. What are the reasons annexed to the fourth commandment?
A. The reasons annexed to the fourth commandment are, God's allowing us six days of the week for our own employments, his claiming a special property in the seventh, his own example, and his blessing the sabbath day.

1. Has God allowed us six days of the week? Yes: Six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work. Has he reserved but one day in seven for himself? Yes: for he hath not made us to serve with an offering, nor wearied us with incense, Isa. 43:23. Does he claim a special property in the seventh day? Yes: it is the sabbath of the Lord thy God. Has our Lord Jesus a property in it? Yes: for the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath, Mark 2:28. Ought we not therefore to devote it to his service? Yes: For will a man rob God? Mal. 3:8.

2. Did God the Creator set us an example of sabbath rest? Yes: for the seventh day he rested and was refreshed, Exod. 31:17. Did God the Redeemer set us an example of sabbath work? Yes: for as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, Luke 4:16. And has he given us encouragement in the work of the Christian sabbath Yes: for when they were assembled on the first day of the week, Jesus stood in the midst, John 20:19.

3. Has God blessed the sabbath day, and so put an honour upon it? Yes: The Lord blessed the sabbath day and hallowed it. Is it not an ill thing then for us to put a slight upon it? Yes: As they do that despise the holy things, and profane the sabbath, Ezek. 22:8. Has God appointed it to be a day of blessings to us? Yes: There will I come to thee, and will bless thee, Exod. 20:24. Are not they enemies to themselves then that neglect it? Yes: they forsake their own mercies, Jonah 2:8.