Matthew 11:28
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Matthew 11:28 is a cornerstone Bible verse where Jesus extends a profound invitation: 'Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' This passage is foundational for Christian teachings on spiritual rest, divine invitation, and Christ as the comforter of weary souls. The phrase captures Christ’s role in offering salvation, solace, and true rest to those burdened by life, sin, and legalism. It is frequently searched by those seeking biblical comfort, Christian encouragement, or theological understanding of Jesus’ compassion and authority.
Summary
‹Come unto me, all› [ye] ‹that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.›
Matthew 11:28 records Jesus' gracious call to 'all who labor and are heavy laden.' The Greek word for 'labor' (κοπιῶντες, kopiontes) implies exhaustion from toil or hardship. 'Heavy laden' (πεφορτισμένοι, pephortismenoi) suggests being weighed down, often understood as the burdens of sin, guilt, or religious legalism under the Mosaic Law. Christ’s promise, 'I will give you rest,' invokes the Old Testament motif of Sabbath rest (see Exodus 20:8–11, https://www.chabad.org/library/biblecdo/aid/9880/showrashi/true/jewish/Chapter-20.htm) and prophetic promises of rest for God's people (see Jeremiah 6:16, https://www.chabad.org/library/biblecdo/aid/16059/showrashi/true). Theologically, this is not mere physical respite but spiritual shalom, fulfillment in Christ. Jesus here asserts His divine authority to give what only God can: true rest (cf. Hebrews 4:9–10, https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews%204:9-10&version=KJV). This verse is thus foundational for doctrines of grace and justification, demonstrating that rest from spiritual striving is found in union with Christ alone.
Are you weary—spiritually, emotionally, or simply ground down by life's burdens? Jesus’ invitation could hardly be more personal or direct: 'Come to Me.' He does not demand we clean ourselves up first or prove our worth; He calls us as we are—exhausted, hurting, spent. The rest Christ offers goes deeper than mere pause or distraction; it's the rest of forgiven sin, fellowship with God, and a peace the world cannot give. He asks us to trust Him enough to lay down what we cannot carry. When you feel too worn to pray or wonder if God truly cares, reread these words. Christ’s heart is gentle, His promise sure. Come, and find that soul-deep rest your heart longs for.