June 3, 2024, Pastor Daren Mehl
Sermon Summary
In this Message, we explore the concept of rest as presented in the Bible, particularly focusing on the rest that comes from faith in Jesus Christ. The Sermon emphasizes that true rest is not about ceasing from physical labor but about ceasing from the works of trying to earn salvation. It is a rest that has been available since the foundation of the world, completed through the work of Jesus Christ. The Sermon also highlights the importance of the Word of God in revealing the intentions of our hearts and leading us to this rest. Through faith and obedience, we can enter into the rest that God has promised, a rest that is symbolized by the Sabbath but is available to us every day as believers.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to reflect on Your Word, we ask that You open our hearts to the Sermon of rest that You have for us. Help us to lay down our burdens at Your feet and embrace the peace that comes from trusting in Your finished work on the cross. May our discussion be guided by Your Holy Spirit, and may we be receptive to the lessons You want us to learn. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one activity that you find most restful and why?
Key Verses
– Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV): “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
– Hebrews 4:9-10 (NIV): “There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.”
Embracing Rest in the Lord
The Promise of Rest
The concept of rest is deeply woven into the fabric of our faith. It’s a rest that goes beyond physical relaxation – it’s a spiritual state of being, a promise from God that we can cease striving and find peace in Him. This rest is not just a future hope but a present reality for those who believe in Jesus.
Today is the Day
Today, God invites us to enter His rest. It’s not about what we’ve done or failed to do; it’s about embracing the work Jesus has already completed. When we believe in Him, we find true rest for our souls, a rest from our own works, as God did from His.
The Word of God: Living and Active
The Bible is not a static text; it’s alive, cutting to the heart of our motivations and intentions. It reveals the areas where we need to grow and change, offering us the chance to align our lives with God’s will.
Approaching the Throne with Boldness
Because of Jesus, our High Priest, we can approach God’s throne with confidence, knowing that we will find mercy and grace. Jesus understands our weaknesses and offers us His strength.
Questions
- How can you embrace the joy of worship in your daily life?
- What does the concept of “rest” mean to you in the context of your faith?
- How can we reconcile the need to work and be productive with the biblical command to rest?
- In what ways might we be trying to earn our salvation through works, rather than resting in faith?
- Have you entered the rest that Jesus offers, or are you still striving in your own strength?
- How does the Word of God act as a “two-edged sword” in our lives?
- Can you share a time when you experienced God’s rest amidst a busy or difficult season?
- What are some practical steps we can take to enter into God’s rest daily?
- What steps can you take this week to deepen your understanding of God’s rest?
- How does the idea of Sabbath as a daily experience change your perspective on rest?
- What does it mean to approach God’s throne of grace with boldness, and how can we do that?
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to find moments each day to enter into God’s rest. Set aside time for prayer, reflection, and reading the Word, asking God to reveal areas where you may be striving in your own strength. Practice trusting in His finished work and let go of any burdens you’ve been carrying. Set aside your efforts and anxieties, and trust in the finished work of Jesus. Reflect on His promises, and let His peace fill your heart. As you do, watch how your perspective on life’s challenges begins to shift, and how joy and worship become a natural response to His presence in your life.
Ending Prayer
Lord God, as we close our time together, we thank You for the gift of Your rest. We pray that the truths we’ve discussed would take root in our hearts and transform our lives. Help us to live out the rest that You offer us in Christ, and may our lives reflect the peace and trust that come from resting in You. Equip us to share this rest with others, that they too may know the joy of Your salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.