the geneva catechism 4
168. Does He thus forbid us all work one day a week? This commandment has a particular reason, for the observance of rest is part of the ceremonies of the ancient Law, which was abolished at the coming of Jesus Christ.
169. Do you mean that this commandment properly belongs to the Jews, and that it was given for the time of the Old Testament? I do, in so far as it is ceremonial.
170. How is that? Is there anything else in it besides the ceremony? It was given for three reasons.
171. What are they? To represent spiritual rest, in aid of ecclesiastical polity, and for the relief of servants.
172. What is this spiritual rest? It is to cease from our own works, that the Lord may work in us.
173. How is that done? By mortifying our flesh, that is, renouncing our own nature, so that God may govern us by His Spirit.
174. Is this to be done only one day a week? This is to be done continually. After we have once begun, we must continue all our life.
175. Why, then, is a certain day appointed to represent this? It is not required that the representation should be altogether identical with the truth, but it is sufficient that there should be some resemblance.
176. But why is the seventh day appointed rather than any other day? The number seven implies perfection in Scripture. Thus it is suited to denote perpetuity. It reminds us also that our spiritual rest is only begun in this life, and will not be perfect until we depart from this world.
177. But what is meant when our Lord asserts that we must rest as He did? After having created all His works in six days, He dedicated the seventh to