Is the Sabbath a burden to carry—or a gift to receive?

In this sermon from Mark 2:23–28, Lord of the Sabbath, David Baalbergen explores the final controversy in Mark 2 and shows how Jesus lovingly corrects a distorted view of God’s law. What the Pharisees saw as lawbreaking, Jesus reveals as trust, need, and rest in God’s provision.

As the disciples walk through the grainfields on the Sabbath, they aren’t rebelling—they’re relying. They receive what God has already provided and rest in Him. Jesus responds by pointing back to King David and the bread of the Presence, reminding us that God has always valued mercy over sacrifice and people over rule-keeping.

Most importantly, Jesus declares who He truly is: “The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” The Sabbath was never meant to fence people in with fear, but to free them to rest, trust, and delight in God. And ultimately, Jesus Himself becomes our true rest—the Bread of Life given for our deepest need.

This sermon considers:

Why the Sabbath is rooted in creation as a gift, not a punishment

How religious fence-building can distort God’s grace

Jesus’ authority as the Author of the Law

Christ as our provision, mercy, and true Sabbath rest

If you’re weary, hungry for grace, or struggling to rest in God’s care, this message points you to the One who meets our needs and invites us to trust Him fully.

📍 East Brainerd Baptist Church

1047 Graysville Rd

Chattanooga, TN

🕚 Sunday Worship | 11:00 AM

🌐 https://eastbrainerdbaptist.org

We would love to welcome you this Sunday as we gather to worship Christ, rest in His finished work, and rejoice that our Savior is truly the Lord of the Sabbath.