Sabbath Gospel: A New Narrative of Time, Rest, and the Work of the Church

Seeing Sabbath as the Gospel's Call to Resist, Reimagine, and Reclaim The world's relentless push for "more and better" reflects a value system that is individualistic and economically exploitative, leaving Christians and the church itself exhausted. Amid this weariness, Sabbath emerges as not merely a day of rest, but a powerful, countercultural invitation to push back. In Sabbath Gospel, G. P. Wagenfuhr and Amy J. Erickson invite us to consider Sabbath as much more than a cessation from work. Sabbath is a grand exodus from tiring economic regimes and the empty promise of self-actualization. By expanding our vision of Sabbath beyond the Creation story, we vacate the idol of the world and take our place in the household of God, the church, where Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. In this robust biblical theology, scholars, theologians, and pastors find a fresh approach to Sabbath that moves us beyond empty practices and renews our language about the gospel. What you'll find in Sabbath Gospel:

- A transformative view of Sabbath as communal resistance against the exploitative value systems of the world - Interdisciplinary insights into the Biblical theology of Sabbath - A call to live out Sabbath anew in God's reconciled community Sabbath Gospel challenges readers to rethink Sabbath, moving beyond individualistic notions of rest. Sabbath is not just about stepping back from work for personal rejuvenation but about stepping into God's household—a reconciled community where rest is shared, burdens are lifted, and the gospel is renewed in our lives. Reimagine your view of Sabbath with Sabbath Gospel.

© 2026 IVP Academic (Ebook): 9781514009550

Release date

Ebook: 24 February 2026