Definition: For he spake in a certain place of the seventh [day] on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Hebrews 4:4. It’s a really interesting and profound idea! Here's an explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about God’s rest – a deliberate pause or break in his work. It’s not just a day off, but a specific, important act of rest. Let’s unpack it word by word: “For he spake” : This means God spoke. “in a certain place of the seventh [day] on this wise” : This is where it gets a little tricky. “Seventh day” refers to the seventh day of the week, which Christians generally observe as holy and rest. "On this wise" – meaning in a wise or thoughtful way – suggests that God was choosing this day for a specific reason. “And God did rest the seventh day from all his works” : This is the core of the verse. God stopped working, or continuing to do things, for one whole day. He took a break from everything he had been doing. What does this mean in practical terms? This isn’t about God being lazy or unproductive. It's a crucial part of how God works. It says that: God is Holy: God is perfect and doesn't need to work all the time. He needs rest: Rest is vital for God to be whole, powerful, and effective. If God worked constantly, he wouldn’t be able to do his amazing things. It’s a sign of His power: This act of resting demonstrates that God's plans are complete and perfect. Why is this important? The Bible often uses the concept of rest as a metaphor for spiritual renewal and healing. It reminds us: We need rest: Just like we need to recharge, we need time to heal, grow, and be refreshed. God works in stages: He doesn't just jump into action all the time. He takes time to plan, work, and then rest. In short, Hebrews 4:4 says that God rested on the seventh day of the week – a significant act of peace, restoration, and divine power. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse or want me to explain it in a different way? For example, are you curious about: The historical context of this passage? Its connection to other biblical stories?