Jesus’ Invitation

Introduction. (Matthew 11:28-30) In our recent Summer Bible study on the last night of the study, in the adult class the preacher mentioned that after we all came together I would extend the invitation. He referred to this, however, in an interesting way. He called it “heaven’s invitation.” I appreciated that! The invitation a church extends to obey the gospel is not a human invitation, but a divine invitation. We see that so clearly in the tender words of Jesus in this text. He appeals, “Come to Me...I will give you rest” This morning I’d like for us to consider the call of Jesus’ Invitation.

I. Jesus’ Invitation speaks to those burdened...

1. By the guilt of sin (Rom. 3:23; James 2:10).
2. By the effects of sin (Isa 48:22; 59:1-2).
3. By enslavement to sin (Titus 3:3; John 8:34).
4. By the penalty of sin (Rom. 6:23; Rev. 21:8).

II. Jesus’ Invitation offers rest for the soul...

1. From the guilt of sin (John 1:29; Rom. 5:8-9).
2. From the effects of sin
3. Despair to hope  (John 11:25; Rev. 14:13).
4. Anxiety to peace  (John 14:27).
5. Fear to love  (Heb. 2:14-15; 1 John 4:18).

III. Jesus’ Invitation requires action...

1. “Come to Me...”
2. “Take My yoke upon you”
3. “Learn from Me”

IV. How do we accept this invitation?

1. It begins with baptism  (Matt. 28:19).
2. For the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16).
3. Rising to newness of life (Rom. 6:3-4).
4. It continues with learning and doing (Mt 28:20).
5. Through the apostles’ doctrine (Acts 2:41-42).
6. Growing in grace and knowledge (2 Pet. 3:18).

Conclusion. Have you accepted Jesus’ invitation?