Resting In Christ

Resting in God's Promises

Matthew 11:25-30, Hebrews 3:7-4:13

Summary: These passages emphasize the rest that Jesus offers to those who come to Him and the promise of rest for the people of God as found in Hebrews.

Application: This sermon will help Christians find peace and comfort in the midst of their struggles and weaknesses by encouraging them to trust in Jesus' invitation to find rest and to cling to the promises of God for ultimate rest.

Teaching: The sermon will teach that true rest is found in surrendering to Jesus, who offers rest to all who are weary, and in believing in the promises of God that guarantee eternal rest.

How this passage could point to Christ: Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate source of rest and peace in Matthew and as the High Priest who secures our rest in Hebrews, pointing to His redemptive work of providing spiritual rest for His people.

Big Idea: Finding true rest involves trusting in Jesus' invitation to come to Him for rest and holding onto the promises of God for eternal rest.

Recommended Study: In preparing this sermon, consider delving deeper into the concept of rest in the Old Testament and its fulfillment in Christ using resources like the 'Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels' and 'New Dictionary of Biblical Theology' in Logos. Explore the significance of the Sabbath rest in Hebrews in light of the broader biblical theology of rest.

1. Rest Offered Freely

Matthew 11:25-30

Perhaps start by emphasizing Jesus' invitation to come to Him for rest as a demonstration of His grace and love, highlighting how this offers immediate comfort and peace for those struggling with life's burdens. This point could also explore the role of trust in Jesus as foundational for entering into God's rest, linking it to the big idea of trusting in Jesus' invitation.

2. Rest Secured by Faith

Hebrews 3:7-4:13

Maybe delve into the promise of eternal rest for the people of God, emphasizing the necessity of faith and obedience to enter that rest. This part could focus on Christ as our High Priest who secures our rest, reinforcing the teaching that true rest is found in surrender and belief in God's promises. It could suggest practical ways to live out this trust in everyday life.