did Trypho challenge Justin Martyr on the 7th day sabbath? - Decalogue

[Steven Avery]

Wip

 

[Steven Avery]

Yes, Trypho the Jew directly challenged Justin Martyr on the observance of the 7th-day Sabbath in their famous text, Dialogue with Trypho. Trypho criticized Justin and early Christians for claiming to be pious while abandoning the Law, specifically pointing out that they did not observe Sabbaths, festivals, or practice circumcision. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]


In chapters 10 through 47 of the dialogue, Trypho specifically argues that the Sabbath is a "perpetual covenant" (referencing Isaiah) and admonishes Justin to keep the Sabbath and follow the Mosaic Law if he hopes to please God. [1, 2]


Justin responded by arguing that the Mosaic Law was given specifically to the Jews as a temporary measure due to their hardness of heart, and that the Sabbath was not a literal day of rest for all of history, but a physical sign pointing toward Christ. He maintained that Christians observe a "perpetual Sabbath" by continually repenting and abstaining from sin. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]


For further reading on their philosophical and theological debate, you can explore the full text translation of the Dialogue with Trypho on New Advent or read a detailed historical analysis of the Sabbath in the Early Church on Founders Ministries.





Would you like me to clarify:

• Justin's specific argument about the "Eighth Day" (Sunday)?
• Trypho's objections regarding Justin's belief in a crucified Messiah?
• Or how Justin's view fits into early Christian theology?