Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Hebrews

Hebrews 
Day 
Day 91

And again in this place...

Text: Hebrews 4:5

FURTHER EXPLORATION

The author of Hebrews was one who felt that the doctrine of God’s “rest” was so important that it was worth further exploration. Let us look at how he has understood the word “rest” thus far.

1. A reference to Canaan

a) This was a historical reference.
b) It may also be described as a literal and physical reference.

2. It was a reference to Heaven

a) This was a figurative reference.
b) It has deep theological merit.
c) It also has deep personal relevance.

3. It must be understood with reference to the idea of “cessation”

a) Reference was made to God resting from His creative activities on the seventh day.
b) In a similar way God will bring about a cessation of normal activities for those who find “rest” in Him.
i) This idea of cessation from normal labour is found in the concept of the Sabbath.
ii) The idea of rest from one’s burdens was also promised by the Lord Jesus (Cf. Matthew 11:28 …a cognate word was used here- anapauso)

AN EMPHATIC STATEMENT

The following text, which is essentially, repetitive, must be read as a statement of emphasis.

“And again in this place:
‘They shall not enter My rest.'”
Hebrews 4:5

What was the point of this emphatic statement? The emphasis seems to suggest that those who do not exercise faith in the Lord would never enter into God’s rest- in any form! They will not have “rest” from their labour. Nor would they find rest for their souls with reference to eternal rest! The challenge to find faith is deeply underscored!