The Bible teaches that gospel rest is the spiritual rest found in Christ, allowing believers to cease from their own works and trust in His finished work.
Gospel rest, as articulated in Hebrews 4:1-3, signifies the spiritual rest believers enter into through faith in Jesus Christ. It is not merely a cessation of work, but a deep, abiding confidence in the salvation provided by Christ. This rest fulfills the Old Testament preparations and types that pointed to the ultimate rest granted through faith. Just as the Israelites were promised physical rest in Canaan yet failed to enter due to unbelief, so too today, individuals can miss the spiritual rest offered in the gospel if they do not believe.
Scripture References:
Hebrews 4:1-3, Matthew 11:28-30, Genesis 2, Hebrews 3:17-18
Commentary