Some form of the word rest is used around sixty times in the NT. Many times it’s use is theologically insignificant, such as when it is used of an object coming to a stop, or as it refers to other people (like, “the rest of them.”). However, several times the use of the word is profound and relevant to our lives, especially as it pertains to the rest that God’s children can experience after this earthly life is completed. Let’s make a few important observations.

First, we notice that although physical rest is a necessary part of life (even recommended by Jesus – see Mk. 6:31), it is secondary to spiritual needs and priorities, as was the case when Jesus told His disciples to “take their rest later on” (Mt. 26:45). Physical rest can wait when one has need of obeying the Gospel, as was the case with the jailor and his household (see Acts 16:25-34).

Lacking rest is not inherently a virtue, but can be when one is deprived for the cause of Christ, as is seen with Paul when he stated: “For even when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn” (2 Cor. 7:5). Suffering for living faithfully to the Lord is a virtue and privilege (see 1 Pt. 4:13-14; Mt. 5:10-12).

The most frequently and significant use of the word “rest” though is in regard to the rest coming at the conclusion of the Christian’s life. This is especially noted in the book of Hebrews as the author likens it to the rest that God had promised the Israelites in Canaan’s land.

However, the inspired writer describes the rest as one that disobedient Israel would not be permitted to enter because of her sin (3:18-19). How tragic! This concept is used powerfully to warn Christians of the possibility of missing out on the rest in eternity that God promises His faithful people. Though Israel’s time has past, Christians should fear lest they fail to reach their rest (4:1). That fear involves being serious about spiritual things and learning from those who were not permitted to enter into Canaan’s land.

A similar comparison, and warning, is made by Paul in 1 Corinthians 10. He tells his brethren that the Israelites serve as an example that they may be motivated to possess more control over evil in their lives (see v. 6). God was not pleased with most of them (v. 5), especially because of their idolatry, sexual immorality and grumbling (vv. 7-10). Though he sternly warns them, he also gives them assurance that “God is faithful… and will provide a way of escape” (v. 13).

The rest that will be enjoyed in heaven is not an “eternal sleep” but a rest from trials, sickness, temptation, evil, weariness and persecution (see Rev. 14:13; 21:4). That sounds better and better to me each day! Remember, our “momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond comparison” (2 Cor. 4:15).

So, “Let us strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience” (Heb. 4:11).

Daren Schroeder