Image by: Kenn

Introduction

Text: Matthew 11:28-30

From heaven Jesus is offering us a tender invitation; but do we really understand and appreciate? We should ask the following question from ourselves

1. To whom Jesus extends this invitation?
2. What He offers to those who will accept it?
3. What He expects from those who desire to respond?
4. The true ease of accepting this invitation?

Let us consider these questions in today’s sermon.

1.    Jesus is calling everyone who is burdened by sin.

A. The burden of sin  separates us from God, (Isaiah 59:1-2)
B. A lack of inner peace causing anxiety, depression, fear and doubt, (Isaiah 48:22)
C. Lack of eternal life Romans 6:23a
D. Any body can accept this invitation for all are sinners, (Romans 3:23)
E. Such are in bondage to sin and its heavy burden, (John 8:34)

2.    God has given you the choice

A. Accept that you are a sinner, (1 John 1:8-9)
B. Accept that you are enslaved by sin
C. Accept that you need divine help

3.    Jesus respects your sincere decision

A. He forgives your sins, (Romans 5:8-9, 1 John 4:10, Ephesians 1:7)
B. You are released from the condemnation of sin, (Romans 8:1)
C.  Peace of life that anything else cannot give, (John 14:27, John 16:33)

4.  Commit your life to Jesus

A. Walk towards Jesus
B. Commit your life to follow his word, (Matthew 11:28-30, "In Jewish literature a 'yoke' represents the sum-total of obligations which, according to the teaching of the rabbis, a person must take upon himself." – William Hendriksen Matthew, New Testament Commentary)

Conclusion

A. Do you desire the rest for your soul that is offered by "The Savior's Tender Invitation"? Then come to Jesus in full obedience to His gospel.  Commit to becoming His disciple, learning from Him all that He commanded.

B. As suggested in Mt 28:19-20, this life of discipleship begins with baptism… (For in baptism we put on Christ – Galatians 3:27, For in baptism we rise to walk in newness of life – Ro 6:3-4)

C. As one rises from the watery grave of baptism, they are freed from the burden of sin through the precious blood of Christ.  As they continue to observe all that He commanded, their burden becomes even lighter as they apply to their lives the wisdom Jesus taught.

D. Have you accepted the yoke of Jesus?  Are you living under that yoke?