Sabbath as Resistance

In a world consumed by relentless productivity, constant connectivity, and the pursuit of more, Walter Brueggemann’s Sabbath as Resistance: Saying No to the Culture of Now offers a prophetic call to reclaim the gift of Sabbath. This course invites participants to explore Brueggemann’s transformative vision of Sabbath as an act of liberation, trust in God, and resistance to the anxiety-driven cycles of consumption and busyness that dominate modern life .

​

Using Brueggemann’s book as a primary text, alongside scripture from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, participants will delve into the biblical foundations of Sabbath, particularly its roots in the Old Testament as a defining practice of ancient Israel . The course will examine how Sabbath is not merely about rule-keeping but about restoring wholeness to individuals and society, offering a countercultural rhythm of rest, renewal, and justice.

Incorporating Lutheran theology, the course will reflect on how Sabbath aligns with the Lutheran understanding of grace, vocation, and the call to love and serve the neighbor. Participants will engage in discussions on how Sabbath practices can foster deeper trust in God’s provision, cultivate community, and resist the pressures of a 24/7 culture.

​

Through guided readings, scripture study, and group discussions, this course will challenge participants to embrace Sabbath as a spiritual discipline that reorients life toward God’s abundance and peace. Whether you are seeking to deepen your faith, reclaim rest in your own life, or explore the intersection of theology and culture, this course offers a meaningful journey into the heart of Sabbath as resistance.