Hebrews 4
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· 4 viewsHebrews 4 exhorts its readers to embrace the spiritual rest that is found in faith in Jesus Christ, a rest that fulfills the Old Testament concept of Sabbath and the promise of the Promised Land, cautioning that unbelief will prevent entry into this divine rest.
Notes
Transcript
Context
In Hebrews 3, the author cites Psalm 95 to remind his readers of the Israelites' failure to enter the Promised Land due to unbelief. This is used as an admonition to the readers not to make the same mistake of hardening their hearts but to embrace the rest that is found in Christ. Hebrews 4 continues this theme, juxtaposing the Sabbath rest of God after creation, the rest that Israel failed to enter because of unbelief, and the rest that remains for the people of God – a rest that is found in Christ.
The backdrop of this chapter also takes into account the understanding of the Sabbath from the Old Testament, particularly from the creation narrative in Genesis and the giving of the Ten Commandments in Exodus. The Jews would understand that the Sabbath was not just a day of physical rest but was intended to be a day of spiritual renewal and reconnection with God.
In essence, Hebrews 4 appeals to its readers to remain steadfast in their faith, lest they miss out on the true rest found in Jesus, much like the Israelites missed out on entering the Promised Land.
Theme and Outline
Hebrews 4 centers on the theme of rest. This rest is not merely the physical rest that many might understand, but it’s a divine, spiritual rest that God offers to His people. The chapter is a strong admonition to embrace this rest through faith in Christ and to be aware of the danger of falling short due to unbelief.
The Promise of Rest Remains (Hebrews 4:1-2)
The promise of entering God's rest still stands, and there is a warning for us not to fall in the same pattern of disbelief as the Israelites did in the wilderness. The good news has been proclaimed, but it did not benefit some because they did not combine it with faith. We, therefore, should be cautious and vigilant.
The True Nature of God’s Rest (Hebrews 4:3-5)
This rest is rooted in God's own rest after the work of creation. As believers, we have been invited to partake in this rest. It is a cessation from one's own works, similar to how God rested from His. It’s a rest that has been available since the foundation of the world.
The Warning of Missing Out (Hebrews 4:6-7)
Despite the promise, there are those who will not enter this rest due to their disobedience and hard hearts. The author uses Psalm 95 to reiterate this warning, pointing out the danger of unbelief and urging the readers to respond "today" to God’s voice.
Jesus, Our High Priest, Secures this Rest (Hebrews 4:8-10)
If Joshua had provided the ultimate rest, God would not have spoken of another day. It indicates that the rest associated with the Promised Land was only a shadow of the true rest found in Christ. By relying on Jesus, our great High Priest, we find our ultimate rest.
An Urgent Call to Action (Hebrews 4:11-13)
The chapter concludes with an earnest plea: to strive to enter that rest. In doing so, we avoid falling due to unbelief. The Word of God is then described as living, active, and sharp - discerning the intentions and thoughts of the heart. Nothing is hidden from God, underscoring the urgency and gravity of the call to believe and enter His rest.
In this chapter, we witness the seamless interweaving of encouragement and warning. It reminds us that while God’s promises are sure, our response matters. It's an invitation to a deeper, more profound relationship with God through faith in Christ, where we can find true rest for our souls.
Proposition
You should embrace God's rest.
The proposition "You should embrace God's rest" is derived from the central theme and admonition of Hebrews 4. The chapter continually beckons the reader to enter into the rest that God has prepared, a rest that is only truly accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. This rest is not simply a cessation from physical labor or the absence of troubles; it represents a state of spiritual peace, a communion with God, and a confident assurance in the finished work of Christ. Throughout the chapter, the danger of missing out on this rest due to unbelief is highlighted. Thus, the call to embrace God's rest stands out as the natural and pressing response to the truths presented.
Illustrations
Adam and Creation - In the beginning, after God finished His work of creation, He rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3). This wasn't because God was tired but rather to establish a pattern for mankind. Adam, the first man, was introduced to this rhythm of work and rest right from the onset. This divine rest was more than just physical; it represented a harmony with God, a world without sin, and a life aligned with God's purposes. It illustrates the original design of how humanity was meant to find its rest in unbroken fellowship with its Creator.
The Israelites and the Promised Land - As the descendants of Abraham journeyed from Egypt, they were promised a land of rest—a land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 3:8). Yet, when the moment of truth came, the majority, except for Joshua and Caleb, doubted God's promise due to the intimidating report of the giants in the land (Numbers 13:28-33). Their unbelief barred them from entering this physical and spiritual rest. Their wandering in the wilderness for 40 years stands as a poignant reminder of the cost of unbelief and the missed opportunity to rest in God's promises.
David and God's Promise - King David, a man after God’s own heart, understood the concept of God’s rest. Despite being a warrior and having numerous adversaries, David often spoke of finding rest in God. In Psalm 62:5, David declares, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.” Even in the midst of turmoil and challenges, David's life exemplified a heart that leaned into and rested in God's faithfulness and promises. His life illustrates that true rest is not the absence of problems but the presence of God.
Each of these biblical illustrations serves to underscore the profound nature of the rest that God offers. From the perfection of Eden to the challenges faced by the Israelites, to the heartfelt cries of David, we see a consistent thread: God's desire for His people to find their ultimate rest in Him.
Reasons You should embrace God's rest.
Because God promised it (Hebrews 4:1).
The Greek word for "promise" is epaggelia (ἐπαγγελία). It conveys the idea of a formal declaration to do something. This same term is used in Acts 13:32, where Paul speaks of the "good news" being the fulfillment of God's promise made to the ancestors. Just as God kept His word in the past, so He will in offering this rest. Abraham, for instance, lived his life by faith in God's promises (Genesis 12:1-4). Though he faced trials, he held onto God's word, illustrating the stability and assurance that comes from trusting in God's promises.
Because God rested (Hebrews 4:3-4).
The term "works" in verse 3 is translated from the Greek ergon (ἔργον), referring to deeds or accomplishments. It's used in John 9:4 when Jesus speaks of the works of God that He must carry out. Reflect on the seventh day of creation when God saw all He had made and declared it very good (Genesis 1:31). Creation, in its pristine state, was a testament to God's magnificent work, and Adam and Eve's initial existence in the Garden of Eden exemplified the rest and harmony God intended for humanity.
Because disobedience will forfeit it (Hebrews 4:6).
Apeitheia (ἀπείθεια) is the Greek term here, which means "disobedience" or "unbelief". In Romans 11:30-32, Paul uses the same term to describe Israel's disobedience, emphasizing God's mercy. Consider the Israelites who, despite witnessing God's wonders in Egypt, rebelled and faced the consequences of their disbelief. Their experience serves as a cautionary tale about the grave outcomes of not heeding God's voice.
Because God's Word discerns us (Hebrews 4:12).
The term "word" (logos - λόγος) emphasizes the message, reason, or rationale. John 1:1 uses this term referring to Jesus, the Word, showing its divine essence. God's Word isn't just information; it's alive, active, and discerning. Think of King Josiah in 2 Kings 22. When the Book of the Law was found and read to him, it deeply pierced his heart, leading to a national revival. His life shows the transformative power of God's Word when taken to heart.Each reason emphasizes the gravity of embracing God's rest. From the foundational promise of rest to the potential forfeiture due to disobedience, and the discerning nature of God's Word, every reason beckons the believer to take the message of Hebrews 4 seriously and respond in faith.
Ways You should embrace God's rest.
By hearing God's voice (Hebrews 4:7).
The term "voice" in Greek is phōnē (φωνή). It often refers to a sound or a call. In John 10:27, Jesus said, "My sheep hear my voice (phōnē), and I know them, and they follow me." Mary Magdalene recognized Jesus after His resurrection when He called her by name, illustrating the profound connection between the Shepherd and His sheep through His voice.
By striving to enter rest (Hebrews 4:11).
"Strive" is translated from spoudazō (σπουδάζω) in Greek, which means to hurry, to be eager, or to make an effort. It's used in 2 Timothy 2:15 where Paul instructs Timothy to "do your best (spoudazō)" to present himself as one approved. Paul's own life, especially his missionary journeys, exemplifies this eager effort to fulfill God's call.
By holding our confession firm (Hebrews 4:14).
The term "hold firmly" comes from krateō (κρατέω), meaning to grasp or to seize. In Revelation 2:25, Jesus uses this term, encouraging the church in Thyatira to "hold fast (krateō)" until He comes. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, held firmly to his confession about Christ even as he faced death, showcasing the depth of commitment and conviction in one's faith.
By approaching God's throne with confidence (Hebrews 4:16).
"Approach" is from the Greek proserchomai (προσέρχομαι), indicating coming forward or drawing near. This term is used in James 4:8, "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 showcases this act of drawing near. After realizing his mistakes, the son decided to return to his father, and instead of condemnation, he received grace and acceptance.
Each way illuminates the active role believers must play in embracing God's rest. It isn't a passive experience but involves intentional actions like hearing, striving, holding firmly, and approaching God. This pursuit of rest is not to earn it but to experience it fully, grounded in the finished work of Christ and the grace of God.
Pointing to Christ
The entire New Testament continually directs our attention to the person and work of Jesus Christ, and Hebrews 4 is no exception. This chapter elucidates how Christ is both the pathway to and the embodiment of the rest that believers are beckoned to enter.
Jesus, the Greater Joshua: While Joshua led the Israelites into the physical Promised Land, he could not give them the ultimate, spiritual rest (Hebrews 4:8). This rest was reserved for Jesus to provide. Just as Joshua's name in Hebrew (Yehoshua) means "The Lord saves," Jesus' name in Greek (Iesous) holds the same meaning. Yet, Jesus accomplishes what Joshua could not – providing eternal rest and salvation for all who believe (Matthew 11:28).
Jesus, the Living Word: Hebrews 4:12-13 speaks of the Word of God as living and active. John's gospel identifies Jesus as the Word made flesh (John 1:14). In Him, we see the perfect representation of God's Word, and it's through His life, death, and resurrection that the promises and admonitions of Scripture find their ultimate fulfillment.
Jesus, Our High Priest: One of the crowning affirmations in Hebrews 4 is that Jesus serves as our great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-15). Unlike the priests of the Old Testament who had to offer sacrifices for their sins and the sins of the people, Jesus, being sinless, offered Himself once and for all (Hebrews 7:27). His priesthood is after the order of Melchizedek, superior to the Levitical priesthood (Hebrews 6:20). Because of Jesus, we can confidently approach God's throne to receive mercy and grace in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
The chapter beautifully interlaces the themes of rest, God's Word, and priesthood, pointing to Jesus as the culmination of them all. In Jesus, believers find the promised rest, experience the transformative power of the living Word, and enjoy unhindered access to God through our great High Priest. Thus, Hebrews 4 serves as a powerful testament to the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ in the believer's journey of faith.
Gospel Invitation
In the vast expanse of life, with its challenges, worries, and the ceaseless striving of human endeavor, Hebrews 4 stands as a beacon, pointing to a profound rest found only in Christ. This is not just a temporary reprieve but an eternal, soul-satisfying rest anchored in the very heart of God's redemptive plan.
Every soul carries the weight of sin, a burden so heavy that it crushes our spirits, leaving us weary and desolate. This weight of sin not only signifies the guilt we bear but also the power it holds over our daily lives, leading us away from the true source of peace and joy.
But the message of Hebrews 4 and the gospel is this: Christ, through His sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection, has made a way. First, He delivers us from the penalty of our sins. By placing our faith in Him, we are justified, declared righteous before God, and the eternal damnation that awaited us is replaced with the promise of eternal life.
Yet, the work of Christ does not end there. As we navigate the trials of life, with its temptations and pitfalls, Christ offers us victory over the daily power of sin. Through faith in our union with His death and resurrection, we are empowered to yield ourselves in obedience to God, to resist sin's allure, and to live a life that radiates His glory.
And as we journey forward, with our eyes fixed on the horizon, we carry the hope of future glorification. A time when we will not only be free from the penalty and power of sin but also its very presence. In Christ, the chains of our old sinful nature will be forever shattered, and we will bask in the eternal rest promised by God.
So, to every weary traveler searching for rest, to every soul burdened by sin's weight, come to Christ. Embrace the rest He offers. Find solace in His finished work, strength in His resurrection power, and hope in the promise of eternal communion with Him. In Christ, find your true Sabbath, your eternal rest.
Bibliography
OpenAI. Understanding and Applying Hebrews 4. ChatGPT, 2023.