This research paper by Ginni Fischer, presented to Dr. Michael Kruger for Hebrews–Revelation at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte (May 15, 2019), traces the theme of Sabbath rest from Genesis to Revelation, showing its ultimate fulfillment in the new creation. Fischer argues that rest is a reflection of God’s nature, a sign of covenant relationship, and the eternal reward of His people.
The study begins in Genesis 2, where God’s rest after creation establishes a divine pattern of work and worship. It follows the Sabbath command through Exodus and Leviticus, noting how the weekly Sabbath, Sabbath year, and Jubilee all foreshadow spiritual restoration and justice. The paper then moves to the New Testament, where Jesus redefines true rest as union with Himself (Matthew 11:28–30) and inaugurates the Lord’s Day through His resurrection. Hebrews 3–4 reframes “rest” as both a present spiritual reality and a future hope for believers who remain faithful.
Fischer’s central claim is that Revelation consummates the entire biblical narrative of rest. She highlights how Revelation 14:13 promises rest to those who die in the Lord and contrasts this with the “anti-Sabbath” of the beast’s mark in Revelation 13. This juxtaposition frames the final conflict between true and false worship. Ultimately, in Revelation 21–22, the eternal Sabbath arrives: God’s dwelling (σκηνή) is with His people, there is no temple because He Himself is the temple, and creation is fully restored. Fischer concludes that the Sabbath begun at creation finds its completion in the new heavens and new earth, where God and His redeemed rest together forever.
Course and semester: Hebrews–Revelation — Spring 2019
