The Labor for the Rest ~ Hebrews 4:11-16
Pastor John Opferman
November 6, 2024
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Main Topics Discussed
Introduction: The Call to Rest in Hebrews 4
Introduction of Hebrews 4 and its call to enter God’s rest.
Rest here is not merely physical rest, nor the Sabbath rest, but a rest from striving for salvation through works.
The theme of resting in Christ’s completed work, not self-effort.
1. The Urgency of Faith to Enter Rest (Verse 11)
“Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest.”
The paradox of “laboring” to rest, meaning the work is to believe and trust, resisting unbelief.
Warning against falling by the “example of unbelief” as the Israelites did in the wilderness.
Unbelief in God’s promises leads to constant striving without peace.
Many religions focus on works for salvation, contrasting with faith in Christ’s completed work.
2. The Word of God as Our Guide to Rest (Verse 12)
The Power of Scripture:
The Word is “quick” (alive) and “powerful” (active) in changing hearts.
“Sharper than any two-edged sword,” able to pierce deeply into our souls.
The Word’s Role in Dividing Soul and Spirit:
Separates human desires (soul) from divine inspiration (spirit).
Example of Jesus in Gethsemane—choosing God’s will over His own human desire.
Piercing Through to Transform:
The Word reveals the inner motives, thoughts, and intentions, allowing believers to see themselves as God sees them.
Enables us to discern between God’s call and our personal inclinations.
3. The Heart-Searching Work of God’s Word (Verses 12-13)
Discerning Thoughts and Intents:
The Word acts like a mirror, exposing true intentions.
God’s Omniscience:
“All things are naked and open to His sight.”
Removes our "cloaks" (religious rituals, self-justifications) and exposes our true state.
Example of religious people using rituals as a “cloak” instead of true repentance.
4. Prayer: Approaching the Great High Priest (Verses 14-16)
Jesus as the Great High Priest:
Christ, the only “great” High Priest, mediates between us and God.
The Role of Prayer in Faith and Rest:
Coming to Jesus in prayer shows trust; it’s a step of faith and surrender.
Access to Mercy and Grace:
Boldly approach the throne of grace for help in times of need.
Prayer is a tool for sustaining faith, especially when we struggle with doubt or are tempted to return to self-reliance.
Conclusion: Trusting Christ for True Rest
We are called to a deeper faith in Christ, resting from self-driven works.
The two key tools for entering this rest:
The Word of God - Alive and active, revealing, transforming, guiding.
Prayer - An act of faith in our Great High Priest, who mediates on our behalf.
Invitation to fully trust in Jesus, embracing the rest He provides through His sacrifice and intercession.
Biblical References
Hebrews 4:11 - “Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.”
Hebrews 4:12 - “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Hebrews 4:13 - “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and open unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.”
Matthew 11:28-29 - “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”
Romans 10:17 - “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
2 Timothy 2:15 - “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
2 Timothy 3:16 - “All scripture is given by inspiration of God.”
2 Thessalonians 2:13 - “…the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”
1 Thessalonians 2:13 - “…when ye received the word of God…ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”
Romans 12:1 - “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice…”
Luke 2:34-35 - “Simeon…said unto Mary…this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
John 15:22 - “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.”
Reflection Questions
How does the idea of "laboring to rest" challenge your understanding of faith and reliance on God rather than on your own efforts?
In what ways have you experienced God’s Word acting as a “two-edged sword” in your life, revealing hidden thoughts or intentions?
Are there areas in your life where you find yourself striving for approval or salvation through “works”? How might you release these efforts and embrace the rest offered in Christ?
How does viewing Jesus as your Great High Priest impact your approach to prayer, especially when seeking mercy and grace in times of need?
What specific promises or truths from God’s Word can you lean on to strengthen your faith and trust in His completed work, especially in moments of doubt or struggle?
Daily Activities
Daily Scripture Meditation
Activity: Choose a passage from Hebrews 4 or another scripture about faith and rest. Spend 10–15 minutes each day meditating on the passage.
Application: Focus on its meaning and how it speaks to your current situation. Write down any thoughts or insights, and pray for God to reveal areas where you need to trust more fully in His promises.
Prayer Reflection Journal
Activity: Begin or end each day by writing a short prayer asking Jesus, your Great High Priest, to help you experience true rest.
Application: Reflect on any burdens or anxieties you are holding onto, and consciously release them to Him. At the end of the week, review your entries to see how God has been working through your prayers and where you've experienced peace.
Faith Check-In with a Friend
Activity: Schedule a time to meet with a friend or accountability partner to discuss areas where you may be struggling with “unbelief” or self-reliance.
Application: Share your thoughts openly and pray together, asking for God’s strength to trust Him fully and lean on His Word. Encourage each other with scripture as a reminder of God's promises.
Living Sacrifice Reflection
Activity: Based on Romans 12:1, write down one area of your life where you need to "cut away" self-centered habits to live as a “living sacrifice.”
Application: Commit to one specific change you can make to align that part of your life more closely with God’s will. Pray daily for strength and wisdom to carry out this commitment.
Weekly “Rest” Sabbath
Activity: Dedicate a specific time each week, even if it’s just an hour, to fully rest in God—no work, no striving.
Application: Use this time to focus on prayer, reflection, and gratitude for His completed work. Let this be a time to quiet your mind and heart, resting in the assurance that you are secure in Him.
