Hebrews 4:1
Verse
Context
The Sabbath Rest
1Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. 2For we also received the good news just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it.
Sermons
Chuck Missler
George Warnock
Zac Poonen
Leonard RavenhillGeorge Warnock
Tim Conway
Chuck SmithSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let us therefore fear - Seeing the Israelites lost the rest of Canaan, through obstinacy and unbelief, let us be afraid lest we come short of the heavenly rest, through the same cause. Should seem to come short of it - Lest any of us should actually come short of it; i.e. miss it. See the note on the verb δοκειν, to seem, Luk 8:18 (note). What the apostle had said before, relative to the rest, might be considered as an allegory; here he explains and applies that allegory, showing that Canaan was a type of the grand privileges of the Gospel of Christ, and of the glorious eternity to which they lead. Come short - The verb ὑστερειν is applied here metaphorically; it is an allusion, of which there are many in this epistle, to the races in the Grecian games: he that came short was he who was any distance, no matter how small, behind the winner. Will it avail any of us how near we get to heaven, if the door be shut before we arrive? How dreadful the thought, to have only missed being eternally saved! To run well, and yet to permit the devil, the world, or the flesh, to hinder in the few last steps! Reader, watch and be sober.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let us therefore fear,.... Not with a fear of wrath and damnation; nor with a fear of diffidence and distrust of the power, grace, and goodness of God; but with a cautious fear, a godly jealousy, a careful circumspection, and watchfulness: lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest; not the land of Canaan, the type of heaven, but rather heaven itself, the ultimate glory: there is a rest of the body in the grave, from work, service, and labour, and from distempers and diseases, where it rests under the guardianship of the Spirit, until the resurrection morn; and there is a rest of the soul before the resurrection, in the arms of Christ, with whom it immediately is, upon its departure from the body; and there is a rest both of soul and body after the resurrection, from sin, from afflictions, from Satan's temptations, from unbelief, doubts, and fears, and from all enemies: and this may be called the rest of God, because he is the author and giver of it; and it will lie much in communion with him; and besides, heaven is the place of God's rest, Isa 66:1 and the possession and enjoyment of the heavenly glory is often signified by an entering into it: and there is a promise of this, which is left in Christ's hands, and shall never fail; though some who have hoped for it may come short of it, or at least seem to do so: but rather a rest under the Gospel dispensation is here intended, since it is a rest believers enter into now, Heb 4:3 and since the Gospel church is represented as a state of peace and rest, Isa 11:6 and which lies in a more clear and comfortable application of the blood and righteousness of Christ to the saints; in a freedom from a spirit of bondage to fear, and from the yoke of carnal ordinances, and in the enjoyment of Gospel privileges and ordinances; and this is God's rest, which he has provided for New Testament saints, and into which they enter by faith, and a profession of it; and the Gospel is the promise or declaration which was left among these Hebrews, and in the world, to encourage them so to do: lest any of you should seem to come short of it; either of the promise, or the rest promised; which if understood of the heavenly glory, the sense is, that though true believers shall not come short of that, yet they may "seem" to others to do so; and therefore should be careful of their lives and conversations, that they might not seem to come short; and this they should do, for the glory of God, the honour of Christ and his Gospel, and the good of others; but if the rest, and the promise of it, intend the Gospel and its dispensation, the meaning is, that saints should be concerned so to behave, that they might not seem to fail of the doctrine of the grace of God, and to be disappointed of that rest and peace promised in it. One of Stephens's copies read, lest "any of us"; which seems most agreeable both to what goes before, and follows.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, I. The apostle declares that our privileges by Christ under the gospel are not only as great, but greater than those enjoyed under the Mosaic law. He specifies this, that we have a promise left us of entering into his rest; that is, of entering into a covenant-relation to Christ, and a state of communion with God through Christ, and of growing up therein, till we are made perfect in glory. We have discoveries of this rest, and proposals, and the best directions how we may attain unto it. This promise of spiritual rest is a promise left us by the Lord Jesus Christ in his last will and testament, as a precious legacy. Our business is to see to it that we be the legatees, that we lay our claim to that rest and freedom from the dominion of sin, Satan, and the flesh, by which the souls of men are kept in servitude and deprived of the true rest of the soul, and may be also set free from the yoke of the law and all the toilsome ceremonies and services of it, and may enjoy peace with God in his ordinances and providences, and in our own consciences, and so have the prospect and earnest of perfect and everlasting rest in heaven. II. He demonstrates the truth of his assertion, that we have as great advantages as they. For says he (Heb 4:2), To us was the gospel preached as well as unto them; the same gospel for substance was preached under both Testaments, though not so clearly; not in so comfortable a manner under the Old as under the New. The best privileges the ancient Jews had were their gospel privileges; the sacrifices and ceremonies of the Old Testament were the gospel of that dispensation; and, whatever was excellent in it, was the respect it had to Christ. Now, if this was their highest privilege, we are not inferior to them; for we have the gospel as well as they, and in greater purity and perspicuity than they had. III. He again assigns the reason why so few of the ancient Jews profited by that dispensation of the gospel which they enjoyed, and that was their want of faith: The word preached did not profit them because it was not mixed with faith in those that heard him, Heb 4:2. Observe, 1. The word is preached to us that we may profit by it, that we may gain spiritual riches by it; it is a price put into our hands to get wisdom, the rich endowment of the soul. 2. There have been in all ages a great many unprofitable hearers; many who seem to deal much in sermons, in hearing the word of God, but gain nothing to their souls thereby; and those who are not gainers by hearing are great losers. 3. That which is at the bottom of all our unprofitableness under the word is our unbelief. We do not mix faith with what we hear; it is faith in the hearer that is the life of the word. Though the preacher believes the gospel, and endeavours to mix faith with his preaching, and to speak as one who has believed and so spoken, yet, if the hearers have not faith in their souls to mix with the word, they will be never the better for it. This faith must mingle with every word, and be in act and exercise while we are hearing; and, when we have heard the word, assenting to the truth of it, approving of it, accepting the mercy offered, applying the word to ourselves with suitable affections, then we shall find great profit and gain by the word preached. IV. On these considerations the apostle grounds his repeated and earnest caution and counsel that those who enjoy the gospel should maintain a holy fear and jealousy over themselves, lest latent unbelief should rob them of the benefit of the word, and of that spiritual rest which is discovered and tendered in the gospel: Let us fear lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it, Heb 4:1. Observe, 1. Grace and glory are attainable by all under the gospel: there is an offer, and a promise to those who shall accept the offer. 2. Those who may attain them may also fall short. Those who may attain them may also fall short. Those who might have attained salvation by faith may fall short by unbelief. 3. It is a dreadful thing so much as to seem to fall short of the gospel salvation, to seem so to themselves, to lose their comfortable hope; and to seem so to others, so losing the honour of their holy profession. But, if it be so dreadful to seem to fall short of this rest, it is much more dreadful really to fall short. Such a disappointment must be fatal. 4. One good means to prevent either our real falling short or seeming to fall short is to maintain a holy and religious fear lest we should fall short. This will make us vigilant and diligent, sincere and serious; this fear will put us upon examining our faith and exercising it; whereas presumption is the high road to ruin. V. The apostle confirms the happiness of all those who truly believe the gospel; and this he does, 1. By asserting so positively the truth of it, from the experience of himself and others: "We, who have believed, do enter into rest, Heb 4:3. We enter into a blessed union with Christ, and into a communion with God through Christ; in this state we actually enjoy many sweet communications of pardon of sin, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace and earnests of glory, resting from the servitude of sin, and reposing ourselves in God till we are prepared to rest with him in heaven." 2. He illustrates and confirms it that those who believe are thus happy, and do enter into rest. (1.) From God's finishing his work of creation, and so entering into his rest (Heb 4:3, Heb 4:4), appointing our first parents to rest the seventh day, to rest in God. Now as God finished his work, and then rested from it, and acquiesced in it, so he will cause those who believe to finish their work, and then to enjoy their rest. (2.) From God's continuing the observance of the sabbath, after the fall, and the revelation of a Redeemer. They were to keep the seventh day a holy sabbath to the Lord, therein praising him who had raised them up out of nothing by creating power, and praying to him that he would create them anew by his Spirit of grace, and direct their faith to the promised Redeemer and restorer of all things, by which faith they find rest in their souls. (3.) From God's proposing Canaan as a typical rest for the Jews who believed: and as those who did believe, Caleb and Joshua, did actually enter into Canaan; so those who now believe shall enter into rest. (4.) From the certainty of another rest besides that seventh day of rest instituted and observed both before and after the fall, and besides that typical Canaan-rest which most of the Jews fell short of by unbelief; for the Psalmist has spoken of another day and another rest, whence it is evident that there is a more spiritual and excellent sabbath remaining for the people of God than that into which Joshua led the Jews (v. 6-9), and this rest remaining, [1.] A rest of grace, and comfort, and holiness, in the gospel state. This is the rest wherewith the Lord Jesus, our Joshua, causes weary souls and awakened consciences to rest, and this is the refreshing. [2.] A rest in glory, the everlasting sabbatism of heaven, which is the repose and perfection of nature and grace too, where the people of God shall enjoy the end of their faith and the object of all their desires. (5.) This is further proved from the glorious forerunners who have actually taken possession of this rest - God and Christ. It is certain that God, after the creating of the world in six days, entered into his rest; and it is certain that Christ, when he had finished the work of our redemption, entered into his rest; and these were not only examples, but earnests, that believers shall enter into their rest: He that hath entered into rest hath also ceased from his own works as God did from his, Heb 4:10. Every true believer hath ceased from his own works of righteousness, and from the burdensome works of the law, as God and Christ have ceased from their works of creation and redemption. VI. The apostle confirms the misery of those who do not believe; they shall never enter into this spiritual rest, either of grace here or glory hereafter. This is as certain as the word and oath of God can make it. As sure as God has entered into his rest, so sure it is that obstinate unbelievers shall be excluded. As sure as the unbelieving Jews fell in the wilderness, and never reached the promised land, so sure it is that unbelievers shall fall into destruction, and never reach heaven. As sure as Joshua, the great captain of the Jews, could not give them possession of Canaan because of their unbelief, notwithstanding his eminent valour and conduct, so sure it is that even Jesus himself, and captain of our salvation, notwithstanding all that fulness of grace and strength that dwells in him, will not, cannot, give to final unbelievers either spiritual or eternal rest: it remains only for the people of God; others by their sin abandon themselves to eternal restlessness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1-2 The author transitions to the promise that the faithful will enter God’s rest and exhorts his listeners to take this promise seriously. Hearing is not enough: It must be combined with faith. 4:1 To fear God means to experience an appropriate reverence, even awe, for God and his will. It would be the worst of tragedies to fail to experience what God has promised.
Hebrews 4:1
The Sabbath Rest
1Therefore, while the promise of entering His rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be deemed to have fallen short of it. 2For we also received the good news just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, since they did not share the faith of those who comprehended it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Jude #2 - Israel in the Wilderness
By Chuck Missler6.4K1:25:52JudeACT 17:111CO 10:13HEB 3:7HEB 4:1JUD 1:5In this sermon, the pastor discusses the topic of apostasy and warns the congregation about the dangers of falling away from the faith. He uses examples from the Bible to illustrate this, including Israel, the angels who sinned, and Sodom and Gomorrah. The pastor emphasizes the importance of avoiding unbelief and staying faithful to God. He also reminds the congregation of the assurance and promises of God, particularly referencing Joshua and Caleb as examples of faithfulness.
Cranbrook 1993 10-1-93
By George Warnock2.5K59:48SeminarMAT 6:33HEB 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying focused and protecting the Lord's table. They encourage the audience to watch their mouths and speak in the spirit. The speaker also mentions a song called "Not My Will" and shares a story about someone who couldn't feel ill will or argue with others for a week after experiencing God's presence. They remind the audience that God's timing may seem slow to us, but it is necessary for our hearts to be prepared for His glory. The sermon concludes with an invitation to fellowship and an opportunity to give towards the expenses of the week.
A Reverential Fear of God
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:08:101CO 2:32CO 7:1EPH 5:21PHP 2:12HEB 4:11PE 1:171PE 2:11PE 2:171PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of reverent fear of God in our lives, highlighting the need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, to live in obedience and holiness, and to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. It addresses the danger of moving from legalism to a state of no covenant, where secret sins and worldliness can creep in, leading to a decline in godliness. The speaker urges a return to a healthy balance, seeking God earnestly, fasting, praying, and evaluating our lives regularly to ensure we are walking in the true grace of God.
Challenges in Hebrews 11
By Leonard Ravenhill2.2K1:27:50Christian LifeHEB 2:3HEB 4:1HEB 4:3HEB 4:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of rest and entering into God's rest. He emphasizes the importance of living a spiritually tall life and not coming short of the promise of entering into God's rest. The speaker also highlights the significance of being raised in a holy atmosphere and having a foundation of righteousness. He uses the example of the children of Israel coming out of Egypt and facing battles in the promised land to illustrate the need for obedience and fighting for victory in the spiritual life.
New Beginnings - Crossing Jordan I
By George Warnock1.8K1:03:05BeginningsEXO 15:2PSA 95:11MIC 6:8MAT 6:33HEB 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not looking back and instead focusing on moving forward in faith. He highlights the faithfulness of Moses and how his obedience allowed Joshua to learn the ways of the Lord. The speaker then discusses the promised land that God has prepared for His people, a place where they don't have to build or labor but can enjoy the abundance that God has provided. The sermon also touches on the idea that sometimes God allows hardship and trouble to prepare His people, and the importance of walking in harmony and union with Him.
A God Sent Message of Warning
By Tim Conway1.7K1:00:27JER 32:40JHN 10:271TI 4:16HEB 3:6HEB 4:1HEB 6:12HEB 10:24HEB 12:25
This sermon emphasizes the importance of heeding the warnings in the book of Hebrews, highlighting the need for genuine faith in Christ, the danger of drifting away, and the necessity of holding fast to our confidence in Him. The speaker urges the listeners to fear falling away from God, to repent when drifting occurs, and to find assurance in Christ through constant meditation on His supremacy.
(Through the Bible) Hebrews 3-4
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:20:24PSA 95:10MAT 6:33PHP 2:12HEB 3:7HEB 3:12HEB 4:1HEB 4:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our actions and motivations, as we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Our works will be judged not based on what we did or didn't do, but on the motivation behind our actions. The speaker warns that many good deeds may be discarded in this judgment. The sermon also discusses the example of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for forty years due to their unbelief and failure to receive God's promises. The speaker highlights the need to exhort and encourage one another daily to avoid being hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
Jehoshaphat - "Faith Cometh by Hearing"
By Major Ian Thomas1.6K1:07:18Faith in ActionDependence On GodJehoshaphat1KI 22:412CH 18:32CH 19:72CH 20:122CH 20:152CH 20:17ROM 10:17PHP 4:61TH 5:16HEB 4:1Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the importance of faith that comes from hearing the Word of God, using the story of King Jehoshaphat to illustrate how faith must be mixed with action to be effective. He explains that while the Word of God generates faith, it is only through the active appropriation of that faith that believers can experience the fullness of God's promises. Jehoshaphat's reliance on God during a crisis exemplifies the shift from self-reliance to total dependence on God's power, culminating in a victorious outcome when he and his people praised God in faith. Thomas urges listeners to not only know the truth but to act upon it, thereby allowing God to work through them. The sermon concludes with a call to abandon unholy alliances and to trust fully in God's sovereignty.
Types in Hebrews 11
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K1:28:00FaithHEB 2:3HEB 4:1HEB 4:3HEB 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and significance of the gospel. He describes it as a dynamic and revolutionary message that should captivate the attention of its listeners. The preacher also highlights the importance of being raised in a holy atmosphere and having a foundation of righteousness. He shares a story of a young boy who willingly sacrificed himself for the sake of others. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the concept of rest and the promise of entering into God's rest through belief in Jesus.
Christian Maturity
By Peet Botha1.4K1:15:48MaturityHEB 1:1HEB 2:3HEB 3:1HEB 4:1HEB 9:11HEB 9:24HEB 10:18In this sermon, the speaker addresses the concern among some Christians that Jesus Christ has not yet returned. He emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith and not turning back to Judaism. The speaker highlights the need to combine knowledge of Christ with personal faith in order to truly experience salvation. He urges the audience to fix their thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest, and to continue growing in their understanding of Christ and repentance from sinful acts.
Drifting
By Manley Beasley1.2K36:53Spiritual DeclineMAT 6:33HEB 2:1HEB 3:11HEB 4:1HEB 12:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving earnest heed to the things we have heard in order to avoid drifting away from God. He warns that if we do not take heed and address our drifting, we may find ourselves unable to get back on course. The preacher highlights the danger of loving both God and the world, stating that our love for the world will be in direct proportion to our love for the Lord. The writer of Hebrews encourages believers to be vigilant and not let the truths they have heard slip away, comparing drifting and leaking vessels to those who have strayed from the path and are unable to find their way back.
Hebrews 4:1-11
By Don McClure1.2K43:34JOS 1:9JOS 3:11HEB 4:1HEB 4:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding rest in God amidst the burdens and struggles of life. He highlights that God desires to give us a spiritual rest that goes beyond occasional moments of relief. The speaker refers to the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho, illustrating how God can provide victory and deliverance when we trust in Him. He concludes by encouraging listeners to cease from their own labors and instead carry the burden of longing for the abiding presence of God in their hearts.
Rest & Fight - Part 1
By Stephen Kaung1.0K1:19:22GEN 1:1EXO 20:8MAT 11:28HEB 4:1HEB 4:13In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28, where He invites all who are burdened and weary to come to Him for rest. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus is the only one who can truly give us rest because He took upon Himself our sins and paid the penalty for them on the cross. The preacher shares a personal experience of finding rest in Jesus at a young age. The sermon also references Hebrews 4:1-13, highlighting the importance of entering into God's rest and the need to fear failing to receive this promise.
Wasted Years
By Don Courville1.0K43:46Desert SurvivalNUM 13:20DEU 1:20MAT 16:24MAT 22:37HEB 3:11HEB 4:1HEB 4:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the voice of unbelief, which is characterized as whiny, complaining, and grumbly. The congregation of Israel is portrayed as crybabies who regret their decision to enter the promised land. Despite their repentance, God declares it is too late for them to enter the land. The preacher then introduces the main message of the sermon, which is the importance of a spiritual truth that leads to victory in the Christian life. The sermon is set in Numbers 13 and 14, where Israel is given the assignment to possess the promised land but fails due to their lack of faith.
Exhortation #2: The Heavenly Calling
By Stephen Kaung1.0K1:04:28HEB 3:1HEB 3:12HEB 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the theme of salvation and warns against hardening our hearts towards God. The first exhortation focuses on the concept of "rest" and how it is only possible when the work of salvation is finished. The second exhortation highlights the heavenly calling that believers have received and the responsibility that comes with it. The speaker urges the audience to encourage one another and not to be deceived by sin, as it can lead to a hardened and unbelieving heart.
Desert Survival Series Pt 29- Moses the Servant of God
By Don Courville91143:46Desert SurvivalNUM 13:20DEU 1:20MAT 16:24GAL 2:20HEB 3:11HEB 4:1HEB 4:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the voice of unbelief, which is characterized as whiny, complaining, and grumbly. The congregation of Israel is portrayed as crybabies who regret their decision to enter the promised land. Despite their repentance, God declares it is too late for them to enter the land. The preacher then introduces the main message of the sermon, which is the importance of a spiritual truth that leads to victory in the Christian life. The sermon is set in Numbers 13 and 14, where Israel is given the assignment to possess the promised land but fails due to their lack of faith.
Laying Hold of Our Promised Land
By Jason Neil78858:52JOS 15:1JDG 1:21HEB 3:18HEB 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of gathering together as God's people, as Jesus promises to be present when they meet. The speaker encourages the audience to hold onto God's promises, such as walking with Him in truth and victory in their families, raising righteous children, and reaching people for Him. The speaker also highlights the example of Caleb, who wholeheartedly followed God and believed in His promises for 45 years. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging the audience to stop waiting and start taking possession of the promises God has given them.
Holiness to Completion in the Fear of God
By Tim Conway6501:02:24MAT 5:28MAT 10:282CO 7:1HEB 4:1HEB 10:26HEB 12:14HEB 12:27
This sermon emphasizes the importance of self-cleansing for Christians based on 2 Corinthians 7:1. It highlights the need to cleanse ourselves from all defilement, pursue holiness, and fear God in the process. The speaker stresses the seriousness of sin, the necessity of amputation of sinful habits, and the fear of facing judgment if holiness is not pursued. The message urges believers to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the need for genuine repentance, obedience, and a life reflecting Christ's image.
A Shout of Faith
By Mel Esh53500:00HEB 4:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Hebrews chapter 4 and emphasizes the importance of mixing faith with the word of God. He highlights the example of the children of Israel who heard the word but did not have faith in it. The preacher encourages the congregation to be faithful and obedient to God's commandments, drawing from Deuteronomy 8. He also shares personal experiences of challenges and breakdowns, reminding the listeners of the need to rest in God's promises and not be consumed by worries and anxieties.
Camp Spalding - Part 3
By George Warnock4161:28:23Fellowship With GodEntering God's RestChristian LifeHEB 4:1George Warnock emphasizes the importance of fully entering into God's rest and the necessity of a deep, personal relationship with Him. He reflects on the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan, illustrating how many fall short of God's promises due to unbelief and a lack of faith. Warnock highlights that God desires true fellowship with humanity, and that our spiritual journey often involves trials and testing in the wilderness to prepare us for a deeper communion with Him. He encourages believers to embrace their identity as friends of God, to seek His presence, and to understand that true rest comes from ceasing our own works and allowing Christ to work through us.
The Manna
By George Warnock2651:26:41MannaEXO 16:33MAT 6:33JHN 10:272TI 3:16HEB 4:1REV 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that there is hope for this generation and for the people of God. However, this hope is not found in the world, but in those who align themselves with the armies of heaven and make a total commitment to God. The preacher highlights the importance of receiving a fresh word from God every day, just like the manna provided to the Israelites in the wilderness. God's provision is for a people who desire to be overcomers, and He offers the opportunity for all to be 100-fold overcomers. The preacher also references the story of Abraham and how God orchestrated the timing and circumstances for the great deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt.
The Covenant 5 - the Holiest of All
By G.W. North1491:50:34CovenantHEB 1:3HEB 2:10HEB 3:1HEB 4:1HEB 9:24HEB 10:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being in the right spirit world through Jesus Christ, rather than becoming mediumistic and entering the devil's world. The preacher highlights how Satan deceives humans by offering them the opportunity to be like gods, but true access to God is through Jesus Christ. The sermon also discusses the concept of rest and perfection, explaining that God created the earth in six days and on the seventh day, He achieved perfection and rest. The preacher encourages the audience to enter into God's rest and emphasizes that the gospel was preached to ancient Israel as well as to the present audience.
The Ten Spies -- an Evil Report
By Daniel Steele1HEB 4:1Henry Burton, under the preaching of Daniel Steele, delves into the deeper spiritual meanings found in the Old Testament histories, emphasizing the prefiguring of spiritual experiences in gospel times. Drawing from the insights of inspired apostles like St. Paul, he highlights how certain events in Israel's history symbolize spiritual truths, such as the command 'Let there be light' representing the light of knowledge of God in believers' hearts. The failure of Israel to enter the promised land due to unbelief is likened to Christians missing out on spiritual blessings due to a lack of faith in God's promises.
Commentary Notes - Joshua
By Walter Beuttler0EXO 15:3DEU 7:3ROM 8:37ROM 16:26EPH 1:11COL 3:24HEB 2:10HEB 3:7HEB 4:11JN 2:1Walter Beuttler preaches on the book of Joshua, highlighting the historical account of Israel's conquest of Canaan, where God led them into victory. The key phrase 'the Lord fought for Israel' emphasizes God's role as a warrior. Joshua, a type of Christ, leads his people to victory and allots them their portion, mirroring Christ's role as our Savior and Advocate. The book of Ephesians serves as the New Testament counterpart to Joshua, emphasizing the importance of obedience, faith, and God's intolerance towards sin.
The Promises of God
By Thomas Reade0PSA 119:50PSA 119:148ROM 8:142CO 1:202CO 5:172CO 7:1HEB 4:12PE 1:4REV 21:7Thomas Reade preaches on the transformative power of the promises of God, emphasizing that all the promises of God are fulfilled in Christ and are available to those who have a saving interest in His merits. Believers are called to be led by the Spirit of God, to be new creatures in Christ, and to bear the marks of His chosen people. Reade urges introspection and sincerity in assessing one's relationship with God, highlighting the need for faith, purity, and perseverance in claiming the consolatory promises of the Gospel.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let us therefore fear - Seeing the Israelites lost the rest of Canaan, through obstinacy and unbelief, let us be afraid lest we come short of the heavenly rest, through the same cause. Should seem to come short of it - Lest any of us should actually come short of it; i.e. miss it. See the note on the verb δοκειν, to seem, Luk 8:18 (note). What the apostle had said before, relative to the rest, might be considered as an allegory; here he explains and applies that allegory, showing that Canaan was a type of the grand privileges of the Gospel of Christ, and of the glorious eternity to which they lead. Come short - The verb ὑστερειν is applied here metaphorically; it is an allusion, of which there are many in this epistle, to the races in the Grecian games: he that came short was he who was any distance, no matter how small, behind the winner. Will it avail any of us how near we get to heaven, if the door be shut before we arrive? How dreadful the thought, to have only missed being eternally saved! To run well, and yet to permit the devil, the world, or the flesh, to hinder in the few last steps! Reader, watch and be sober.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let us therefore fear,.... Not with a fear of wrath and damnation; nor with a fear of diffidence and distrust of the power, grace, and goodness of God; but with a cautious fear, a godly jealousy, a careful circumspection, and watchfulness: lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest; not the land of Canaan, the type of heaven, but rather heaven itself, the ultimate glory: there is a rest of the body in the grave, from work, service, and labour, and from distempers and diseases, where it rests under the guardianship of the Spirit, until the resurrection morn; and there is a rest of the soul before the resurrection, in the arms of Christ, with whom it immediately is, upon its departure from the body; and there is a rest both of soul and body after the resurrection, from sin, from afflictions, from Satan's temptations, from unbelief, doubts, and fears, and from all enemies: and this may be called the rest of God, because he is the author and giver of it; and it will lie much in communion with him; and besides, heaven is the place of God's rest, Isa 66:1 and the possession and enjoyment of the heavenly glory is often signified by an entering into it: and there is a promise of this, which is left in Christ's hands, and shall never fail; though some who have hoped for it may come short of it, or at least seem to do so: but rather a rest under the Gospel dispensation is here intended, since it is a rest believers enter into now, Heb 4:3 and since the Gospel church is represented as a state of peace and rest, Isa 11:6 and which lies in a more clear and comfortable application of the blood and righteousness of Christ to the saints; in a freedom from a spirit of bondage to fear, and from the yoke of carnal ordinances, and in the enjoyment of Gospel privileges and ordinances; and this is God's rest, which he has provided for New Testament saints, and into which they enter by faith, and a profession of it; and the Gospel is the promise or declaration which was left among these Hebrews, and in the world, to encourage them so to do: lest any of you should seem to come short of it; either of the promise, or the rest promised; which if understood of the heavenly glory, the sense is, that though true believers shall not come short of that, yet they may "seem" to others to do so; and therefore should be careful of their lives and conversations, that they might not seem to come short; and this they should do, for the glory of God, the honour of Christ and his Gospel, and the good of others; but if the rest, and the promise of it, intend the Gospel and its dispensation, the meaning is, that saints should be concerned so to behave, that they might not seem to fail of the doctrine of the grace of God, and to be disappointed of that rest and peace promised in it. One of Stephens's copies read, lest "any of us"; which seems most agreeable both to what goes before, and follows.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here, I. The apostle declares that our privileges by Christ under the gospel are not only as great, but greater than those enjoyed under the Mosaic law. He specifies this, that we have a promise left us of entering into his rest; that is, of entering into a covenant-relation to Christ, and a state of communion with God through Christ, and of growing up therein, till we are made perfect in glory. We have discoveries of this rest, and proposals, and the best directions how we may attain unto it. This promise of spiritual rest is a promise left us by the Lord Jesus Christ in his last will and testament, as a precious legacy. Our business is to see to it that we be the legatees, that we lay our claim to that rest and freedom from the dominion of sin, Satan, and the flesh, by which the souls of men are kept in servitude and deprived of the true rest of the soul, and may be also set free from the yoke of the law and all the toilsome ceremonies and services of it, and may enjoy peace with God in his ordinances and providences, and in our own consciences, and so have the prospect and earnest of perfect and everlasting rest in heaven. II. He demonstrates the truth of his assertion, that we have as great advantages as they. For says he (Heb 4:2), To us was the gospel preached as well as unto them; the same gospel for substance was preached under both Testaments, though not so clearly; not in so comfortable a manner under the Old as under the New. The best privileges the ancient Jews had were their gospel privileges; the sacrifices and ceremonies of the Old Testament were the gospel of that dispensation; and, whatever was excellent in it, was the respect it had to Christ. Now, if this was their highest privilege, we are not inferior to them; for we have the gospel as well as they, and in greater purity and perspicuity than they had. III. He again assigns the reason why so few of the ancient Jews profited by that dispensation of the gospel which they enjoyed, and that was their want of faith: The word preached did not profit them because it was not mixed with faith in those that heard him, Heb 4:2. Observe, 1. The word is preached to us that we may profit by it, that we may gain spiritual riches by it; it is a price put into our hands to get wisdom, the rich endowment of the soul. 2. There have been in all ages a great many unprofitable hearers; many who seem to deal much in sermons, in hearing the word of God, but gain nothing to their souls thereby; and those who are not gainers by hearing are great losers. 3. That which is at the bottom of all our unprofitableness under the word is our unbelief. We do not mix faith with what we hear; it is faith in the hearer that is the life of the word. Though the preacher believes the gospel, and endeavours to mix faith with his preaching, and to speak as one who has believed and so spoken, yet, if the hearers have not faith in their souls to mix with the word, they will be never the better for it. This faith must mingle with every word, and be in act and exercise while we are hearing; and, when we have heard the word, assenting to the truth of it, approving of it, accepting the mercy offered, applying the word to ourselves with suitable affections, then we shall find great profit and gain by the word preached. IV. On these considerations the apostle grounds his repeated and earnest caution and counsel that those who enjoy the gospel should maintain a holy fear and jealousy over themselves, lest latent unbelief should rob them of the benefit of the word, and of that spiritual rest which is discovered and tendered in the gospel: Let us fear lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it, Heb 4:1. Observe, 1. Grace and glory are attainable by all under the gospel: there is an offer, and a promise to those who shall accept the offer. 2. Those who may attain them may also fall short. Those who may attain them may also fall short. Those who might have attained salvation by faith may fall short by unbelief. 3. It is a dreadful thing so much as to seem to fall short of the gospel salvation, to seem so to themselves, to lose their comfortable hope; and to seem so to others, so losing the honour of their holy profession. But, if it be so dreadful to seem to fall short of this rest, it is much more dreadful really to fall short. Such a disappointment must be fatal. 4. One good means to prevent either our real falling short or seeming to fall short is to maintain a holy and religious fear lest we should fall short. This will make us vigilant and diligent, sincere and serious; this fear will put us upon examining our faith and exercising it; whereas presumption is the high road to ruin. V. The apostle confirms the happiness of all those who truly believe the gospel; and this he does, 1. By asserting so positively the truth of it, from the experience of himself and others: "We, who have believed, do enter into rest, Heb 4:3. We enter into a blessed union with Christ, and into a communion with God through Christ; in this state we actually enjoy many sweet communications of pardon of sin, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace and earnests of glory, resting from the servitude of sin, and reposing ourselves in God till we are prepared to rest with him in heaven." 2. He illustrates and confirms it that those who believe are thus happy, and do enter into rest. (1.) From God's finishing his work of creation, and so entering into his rest (Heb 4:3, Heb 4:4), appointing our first parents to rest the seventh day, to rest in God. Now as God finished his work, and then rested from it, and acquiesced in it, so he will cause those who believe to finish their work, and then to enjoy their rest. (2.) From God's continuing the observance of the sabbath, after the fall, and the revelation of a Redeemer. They were to keep the seventh day a holy sabbath to the Lord, therein praising him who had raised them up out of nothing by creating power, and praying to him that he would create them anew by his Spirit of grace, and direct their faith to the promised Redeemer and restorer of all things, by which faith they find rest in their souls. (3.) From God's proposing Canaan as a typical rest for the Jews who believed: and as those who did believe, Caleb and Joshua, did actually enter into Canaan; so those who now believe shall enter into rest. (4.) From the certainty of another rest besides that seventh day of rest instituted and observed both before and after the fall, and besides that typical Canaan-rest which most of the Jews fell short of by unbelief; for the Psalmist has spoken of another day and another rest, whence it is evident that there is a more spiritual and excellent sabbath remaining for the people of God than that into which Joshua led the Jews (v. 6-9), and this rest remaining, [1.] A rest of grace, and comfort, and holiness, in the gospel state. This is the rest wherewith the Lord Jesus, our Joshua, causes weary souls and awakened consciences to rest, and this is the refreshing. [2.] A rest in glory, the everlasting sabbatism of heaven, which is the repose and perfection of nature and grace too, where the people of God shall enjoy the end of their faith and the object of all their desires. (5.) This is further proved from the glorious forerunners who have actually taken possession of this rest - God and Christ. It is certain that God, after the creating of the world in six days, entered into his rest; and it is certain that Christ, when he had finished the work of our redemption, entered into his rest; and these were not only examples, but earnests, that believers shall enter into their rest: He that hath entered into rest hath also ceased from his own works as God did from his, Heb 4:10. Every true believer hath ceased from his own works of righteousness, and from the burdensome works of the law, as God and Christ have ceased from their works of creation and redemption. VI. The apostle confirms the misery of those who do not believe; they shall never enter into this spiritual rest, either of grace here or glory hereafter. This is as certain as the word and oath of God can make it. As sure as God has entered into his rest, so sure it is that obstinate unbelievers shall be excluded. As sure as the unbelieving Jews fell in the wilderness, and never reached the promised land, so sure it is that unbelievers shall fall into destruction, and never reach heaven. As sure as Joshua, the great captain of the Jews, could not give them possession of Canaan because of their unbelief, notwithstanding his eminent valour and conduct, so sure it is that even Jesus himself, and captain of our salvation, notwithstanding all that fulness of grace and strength that dwells in him, will not, cannot, give to final unbelievers either spiritual or eternal rest: it remains only for the people of God; others by their sin abandon themselves to eternal restlessness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1-2 The author transitions to the promise that the faithful will enter God’s rest and exhorts his listeners to take this promise seriously. Hearing is not enough: It must be combined with faith. 4:1 To fear God means to experience an appropriate reverence, even awe, for God and his will. It would be the worst of tragedies to fail to experience what God has promised.