The Seventh Day Sabbath, a Perpetual Sign 1847 edition

"The Seventh Day Sabbath, a Perpetual Sign" by Joseph Bates is a theological work written in the mid-19th century. The book heavily focuses on the significance and observance of the seventh-day Sabbath as a divine commandment, emphasizing its continuity and relevance since the creation of the world. Bates argues against the shift to Sunday observance in Christian teachings, insisting that the Sabbath, as ordained by God, is a perpetual covenant meant for all humanity. The opening of the book establishes the author's conviction that the Sabbath was instituted at the time of creation and remains binding on believers today. Bates supports his argument by referencing various biblical scriptures, aiming to clarify misconceptions surrounding the Sabbath and its observance. He presents a detailed discussion of the commandment, asserting that historical shifts—particularly the transition from the seventh to the first day of the week—have obscured its true significance and perpetuity. From the beginning, Bates invites readers to reconsider the importance of adhering to the Sabbath law as part of their spiritual duties. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Joseph Bates was an American seaman and revivalist minister. He was a co-founder and developer of Sabbatarian Adventism, whose followers would later establish the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Bates is also credited with convincing James White and Ellen G. White of the validity of the seventh-day Sabbath.