The Preacher's Commentary Series, Volume 33: Hebrews

Top Highlights

“In the condition of rest, the faithful believer experiences the exhilaration of creativity and productivity; stress and anxiety are minimized; joy lifts the spirit above the waves of normal frustrations and a holy purpose stimulates a vitality that is not overwhelmed by difficulties. Serenity and laughter are the marks of being in the place of rest. The rest of God is not cessation from activity, but a peace within the toil.” (Page 100)

“Those who find the rest of God are those who discover the strategy of God, submit to His timing for events, and appropriate the resources God provides, refusing to fall to the temptation of distrusting or judging the capabilities of others. The job gets done; we can put down the tools; we can enjoy the sabbath rest.” (Page 103)

“The definition of rest appears multifaceted. First, it is the place of God’s design.” (Page 100)

“We are to ‘run with endurance the race that is set before us.’ The Greek word translated ‘race’ is agōn, from which we get our word agony. It signifies a wrestling match or race in which endurance and determination must overcome the aching desire to quit.” (Page 213)

“Third, the final result is a hardened heart—a will no longer stimulated by the desires of God, a mind set on selfish comforts, emotions addicted to quick fixes and easy convenience.” (Page 97)