1. These verses record what is commonly called "the great invitation." 2. In our lesson we are examining: a. the source of this invitation b. the recipients of this invitation c. the blessing associated with this invitation.
Discussion:
I. LET US IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE GREAT INVITATION
A. It is important for us to properly identify the source because the one who gave it said, "Come unto me." B. Jesus, the Son of God, is the one who extends this invitation (see vs.25-27). C. (vs.29) He described Himself as being "meek and lowly in heart." 1. Later, Jesus demonstrated His meekness when He rode into Jerusalem on a donkey (Matthew 21:1-5; Zechariah 9:9). 2. We must not confuse His meekness with weakness (Matthew 21:12-14). 3. Because the Lord is meek He will not force anyone to come to Him -- it is up to us to accept or decline His invitation. 4. Love for the Lord will motivate us to come to Him on His terms (John 14:15). D. In addition to being meek, Jesus is able to empathize with us in our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15).
II. LET US IDENTIFY THE RECIPIENTS OF THE GREAT INVITATION
A. The Lord invites all who "labor and are heavy laden" to come to Him. 1. Those who "labor" are exhausted from burdens or grief. 2. Those who are "heavy laden" are burdened down from the weight of sin. B. As we think about those Jesus invites to come to Him, let us remember that: 1. He has compassion on people in these categories (Matthew 9:36) 2. He came "to heal the brokenhearted" (Luke 4:16-21; Isaiah 61:1-2). C. Those who accept the Lord's invitation and come to Him on His terms will receive a special blessing.
III. LET US IDENTIFY THE BLESSING ASSOCIATED WITH THE GREAT INVITATION
A. Jesus gives "rest" (vs.28) that He described as "rest unto your souls" (vs.29) [tranquility of the soul]. B. Specific blessings that relate to this spiritual rest include: 1. forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38; 1 John 1:7, 9) 2. life (John 10:10b) 3. peace (John 14:27) 4. joy (John 15:11) 5. mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16) 6. hope (1 Peter 1:3-4).
Conclusion:
1. To receive the Lord's rest we must: a. come to Him b. take His yoke upon us c. learn of [from] Him. 2. The Lord gives us responsibilities, but His "yoke is easy," and His "burden is light." 3. Do you need to accept the Lord's invitation?
