Sabbath Rest for the Weary--Hebrews 4:1-11

Rest. Digest that word for a moment. The Exodus Generation who wandered in the desert longed for this, but would never receive it because of unbelief. The writer of Hebrews continues using this group of people as an negative illustration of what not to do. Why? Because God still promises rest for us Today. 

The Sabbath: Weekly Rest

As you read through Hebrews 4:1-11 note the idea of rest. There are several different depictions of rest. Firstly, God rested after his works of creation. I've observed this idea of a once a week Sabbath is largely lost in our culture of busy bustling. Other activities take priority over assembling with the local congregation. 

Why is this important to note? Because Romans tells us that "faith comes from hearing" of the Word. And what is Hebrews warning will keep you from Rest? Unbelief. The remedy for unbelief is faith. And faith is gained through the hearing of the Word of God which is preached at church.

Not only this, but Hebrews will later mention that assembling together in the local congregation gives Christians an opportunity for mutual encouragement...which is a necessary element of perseverance. Assemble. Give and receive encouragement. It gives strength and sustenance to our faith.

The Sabbath: The Present Rest
After the passing of the Exodus Generation, Joshua led the people of Israel into the rest of the Promised Land. The wandering of 40 years finally over. The people can now rest. The rest God offers is for us today. This rest for the soul comes through the Gospel of Christ. When we embrace salvation, there is peace and provision. Our souls are supplied and kept safe. A Christian need not worry, we can enter the present rest that God offers us through the Gospel. 

The Sabbath: The Future Rest
In reading of the Promised Land it's impossible to miss the double meaning of this phrase. Consider that David wrote Psalm 95 and Hebrews quote it long after the Israelites entered the Promised Land, yet they speak of a rest still unattained. This is the future rest promised to those who maintain faith, those who do not drift into disobedience, those that persevere within the present rest that God offers through the Gospel. 

So the question remains, "How Do We Enter Rest?" By trusting in Jesus. Faith is the place where the "weary sinner can stretch himself out on Jesus." This is more than a mental assent, more than being inspired, more than good works which serve to produce a begrudging submission. Our trust is not in works, but rest upon the God who has finished the work of salvation...faith in the Gospel of Christ. While is it still Today I ask you, "What will you do with the Gospel?" Your answer is the most important decision you will ever make in this life.