Christian Sabbath is Sunday; Fourth Commandment binding; strict observance encouraged
The PCA affirms that the Sabbath commandment (Fourth Commandment) is binding on all Christians, but the day of observance has changed from Saturday to Sunday (the Lord's Day), commemorating Christ's resurrection. This doctrine is taught in Westminster Confession of Faith XXI and reflects the Reformed Protestant understanding of the moral law's permanence and the new covenant's modification of ceremonial detail.
Sunday is set apart as holy to the Lord and is to be devoted to rest from labor and to worship. While the PCA rejects the Judaizing of the Christian Sabbath (enforcing ceremonial minutiae), it encourages believers to keep Sunday holy, to gather for worship, and to rest from secular pursuits to honor God's command.
The cessation of Saturday observance reflects the truth that Christ fulfilled the ceremonial law. However, the underlying principle—that God's people need regular rest and focused worship—remains. The PCA does not impose legalistic restrictions on Sunday activities but encourages a countercultural rhythm of rest and worship in a secular age.
Key Distinctions
- Day observed:
- From Saturday to Sunday; commemorates resurrection
- Observance theology:
- Encouraged; rest and worship prioritized; not legalistic
- Binding on christians:
- Fourth Commandment moral law is binding; day changed
Scripture References
Sources
- Westminster Confession of Faith XXI.7-8
- Westminster Larger Catechism Q&A 121