1. In these verses Jesus offered to give a special blessing to everyone who needs it. a. The blessing is "rest" that Jesus described as "rest unto your souls" [being refreshed spiritually]. b. The Lord's offer is for those who "labor and are heavy laden" [explained in Matthew 9:36]. c. The Lord extends His offer to those who meet His requirements, including: 1) coming to Him -- He will not force anyone because He is "meek and lowly in heart" 2) taking His yoke [submitting to His will -- Matthew 16:24-25] 3) learning of [from] Him. d. The Lord gave a message of assurance to all who come to Him on His terms -- "ye shall find rest unto your souls" (see Matthew 7:7-8). 2. Our lesson is based on the Lord's statement: "I will give you rest." 3. We are listing several specific blessings from the Lord that enable us to be spiritually refreshed. Discussion: I. THE LORD'S REST INCLUDES "FORGIVENESS OF SINS"
A. Ephesians 1:7 B. 1 John 1:7, 9 II. THE LORD'S REST INCLUDES "LIFE"
A. John 10:10 B. Revelation 22:17 III. THE LORD'S REST INCLUDES "JOY"
A. John 15:11 B. Philippians 4:4 IV. THE LORD'S REST INCLUDES "PEACE"
A. John 14:27 B. John 16:33 V. THE LORD'S REST INCLUDES "MERCY AND GRACE" (Hebrews 4:16) VI. THE LORD'S REST INCLUDES "HOPE" (1 Peter 1:3-4)
Conclusion:
1. The Scriptures reveal many other blessings from the Lord that enable us to be spiritually refreshed (Ephesians 1:3). 2. Let us pursue these special blessings as we seek "rest" from the Lord. 3. With all authority in heaven and in earth, Jesus said: "I will give you rest."
