The Yoke of Christ

 

Focus Scripture: Matthew 11:25-30

Jesus boldly declares that his Father in heaven has given unto him all power and dominion over all creation (cf. Isa 9:6-7, Dan 7:13-14, Jn 3:35, Eph 1:22, 1 Pt 3:21-22). This truth is a great assurance and comfort to us in this lost world, as it highlights God’s sovereign control. He is our Good Shepherd who cares for his flock (Jn 10). Here are three truths we should consider prayerfully when reading this passage:

(1) The Law Does not Justify

The Law that was given in the Old Testament (OT) to the Jews did not justify men before God (Gal 2:16). Rather, it identified sin (Rom 7), and man’s inability to obey without intervention from God. This spotlights our need for a sinless Savior (1 Pt 1:19). Jesus obeyed the OT Law perfectly, thus doing what we cannot, that we may be saved and justified by God through Christ.

(2) Jesus offers Grace and Truth, not condemnation through the Law

The Pharisees and scribes added many other oral traditions and ordinances that went far beyond the demands of God’s OT Law, which became a heavy burden to the people (Mt 15:1-6, 23:1-4, 13). They hypocritically piled on rule after rule making it impossible for person to bear the weight of works they were told are needed to be in right standing with God. The consequences such work-based self-justification was that it discouraged, exasperated, and hindered a person from pursuing God. Such a person was bearing the crippling weight of false teaching that promoted that compliance with a bunch of rules (that in reality only contributed only to an outward appearance of righteousness) will provide for our needs. This is the type of falsehood Christ came to destroy with the Gospel.

The Bible teaches that Jesus (by grace) already knows our needs (without him holding our faults and shortcomings against us). We are to come to Christ that by Him they would be met (Heb 4:11-16). Only when we realize that we (in human will, strength and ingenuity) cannot meet our eternal needs, can we clearly see our need for Savior and run to him.

(3) The Demands of Christ are Refreshing & Life-Giving

Historically, a “yoke” was a wooden crosspiece (or harness) fastened over the neck of two animals which was attached to a plow  or cart they were supposed to pull. The yoke enabled the animals such as oxen, to bear the burden of the weight they would be hauling. Jesus uses this imagery in a emblematic way to emphasize the contrast between his requirements vs the religious elite of his day. The yoke of Christ has its demands, but it is easier to carry because of the nature and the intended purpose of the One who places it on us.

Jesus was (and is) not a unloving, crude, unmerciful judge as the Pharisees were, but rather he was (and is) compassionate, merciful, kind and gracious Savior. John 1:17 affirms this truth when it says, “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”  The yoke of believing Christ keeps us tethered to him.  As Teacher & Master of our lives we learn from him that he may be glorified in us. It is only when we take his yoke upon ourselves, will our souls truly find rest.

 

Final Encouragement: Put on Christ

Under the New Testament covenant, we are not under the “law.” However, in the process of seeking worldly glory, goods, and guarantee, we heap upon ourselves things that falsely boast and advertise themselves as a provision for peace and rest. Unfortunately, the end of such pursuits leaves us empty, insecure, and detached from the Creator who is the only One who can provide such rest and re-assurance (cf. Jn 14:27). One the primary benefits of resting in him, is we are taught his Word, which exalts his ways and his Glory. Through his Word, God a gives us an eternal perspective and hope which builds our faith. It is in these things we receive a rest that transcends our present mortal condition of the fallen world.

So let us cast our burdens of this world on him and in exchange place on ourselves Christ, to command, guide, and preserve our lives. May this be an encouragement to us all.

(Other suggested scripture readings for further reflection and study: Psalm 23)

Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D

www.springoflivingwaters.com