'Now if Joshua had given them rest, he would not have spoken afterwards of another day. Therefore, a sabbath rest still remains for the people of God. And whoever enters into God’s rest, rests from his own works as God did from his. Therefore, let us strive to enter into that rest, so that no one may fall after the same example of disobedience. Indeed, the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account (Heb. 4:8-13).'
The Israelites at the time of the Exodus were not obedient to God and followed foreign gods so many did not enter into God’s rest before and after they entered the Promised Land under Joshua. The Greek name for Joshua is the same as that for Jesus. Joshua led the Israelites into Palestine to enter into God’s rest. Jesus came to lead those who believe in his Word into the heavenly rest of God – divine rest. The Word of God judges the heart justly because nothing can be hidden from it so it will reveal who is worthy to enter into God’s rest. The Word of God incarnate is Jesus. The Word of God saves but it also judges. The Word of God brings life; it achieves its purpose. Christians must be faithful to the Word of God so that they can attain the true Promised Land and enter into the Sabbath’s rest that will never end.
Almighty God, through your merciful grace mold us into the spiritual perfection that you desire. Help us to accept and live your Word so that from the depths of our hearts we may be shown the innermost secrets that keep us apart from you. Shower us with your divine wisdom and teach us to love you above all things. This we pray through Christ or Lord. Amen
References:
Raymond E. Brown, Joseph A. Fitzmyer, & Roland E. Murphy, (Eds.). (1990, 1968). The New Jerome Biblical Commentary. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentis Hall, Inc.
Jose M. Casciaro, Santiago Ausin, Gonzalo Aranda, Claudio Basevi, Vincente Balaguer, Francisco Varo, James Gavigan, Brian McCarthy & Thomas McGovern (Eds.). (2017). The Navarre Bible - New Testament. Dublin 8, Ireland: Four Courts Press.
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