The Promise of Rest

Hebrews 4:1–11
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In this passage we find the word “rest“ mentioned nine times (vv. 1-11).  God has provided a “rest“ and that “rest“ can still be known today. The reference to Jesus also involves Joshua of the Old Testament (v. 8). The two words, Joshua and Jesus, in Hebrew and Greek, are the same. Here the author suggests there must be a permanent and better rest for the people of God than was realized in Joshua’s day. We see that this rest is compared to that of God’s rest following creation, so we might also think of this rest being a present blessing of God (v. 4). There is also an eternal rest which is in the future (v. 9). We find this refers to Christ who has finished His work for redeeming us, and like God the Father has entered His rest (v. 10). We are told to be diligent to enter God’s rest and not miss what God has because of unbelief (v. 11).

From this passage we see the need for the gospel to be preached, faith to be exercised by those who hear, and rest provided for those who believe.

Six Aspects of Rest:

• Creation rest, broken by sin Genesis 2:2
• Redemption rest, secured in Christ Zeph. 3:17
• The sinner’s rest, by coming to Christ  Matt. 11:28
• The saint’s rest, in communion with Christ Mark 6:30
• Paradise rest, present 2 Cor. 5:1-8
• Eternal rest, future Heb. 4:9

Application

Do I have fears and worries? God provides rest. All I need to do is trust Him and allow Him to work.