assemble. The cavils of worldly men are often very trifling and show great malice. Something they
have to urge against every one, however excellent and holy. Christ, who was undefiled, and separate
from sinners, is here represented as in league with them, and polluted by them. The most unspotted
innocence will not always be a defence against reproach. Christ knew that the hearts of the Jews
were more bitter and hardened against his miracles and doctrines, than those of Tyre and Sidon
would have been; therefore their condemnation would be the greater. The Lord exercises his almighty
power, yet he punishes none more than they deserve, and never withholds the knowledge of the
truth from those who long after it.
Verses 25–30
It becomes children to be grateful. When we come to God as a Father, we must remember that
he is Lord of heaven and earth, which obliges us to come to him with reverence as to the sovereign
Lord of all; yet with confidence, as one able to defend us from evil, and to supply us with all good.
Our blessed Lord added a remarkable declaration, that the Father had delivered into his hands all
power, authority, and judgment. We are indebted to Christ for all the revelation we have of God
the Father's will and love, ever since Adam sinned. Our Saviour has invited all that labour and are
heavy-laden, to come unto him. In some senses all men are so. Worldly men burden themselves
with fruitless cares for wealth and honours; the gay and the sensual labour in pursuit of pleasures;
the slave of Satan and his own lusts, is the merest drudge on earth. Those who labour to establish
their own righteousness also labour in vain. The convinced sinner is heavy-laden with guilt and
terror; and the tempted and afflicted believer has labours and burdens. Christ invites all to come to
him for rest to their souls. He alone gives this invitation; men come to him, when, feeling their guilt
and misery, and believing his love and power to help, they seek him in fervent prayer. Thus it is
the duty and interest of weary and heavy-laden sinners, to come to Jesus Christ. This is the gospel
call; Whoever will, let him come. All who thus come will receive rest as Christ's gift, and obtain
peace and comfort in their hearts. But in coming to him they must take his yoke, and submit to his
authority. They must learn of him all things, as to their comfort and obedience. He accepts the
willing servant, however imperfect the services. Here we may find rest for our souls, and here only.
Nor need we fear his yoke. His commandments are holy, just, and good. It requires self-denial, and
exposes to difficulties, but this is abundantly repaid, even in this world, by inward peace and joy.
It is a yoke that is lined with love. So powerful are the assistances he gives us, so suitable the
encouragements, and so strong the consolations to be found in the way of duty, that we may truly
say, it is a yoke of pleasantness. The way of duty is the way of rest. The truths Christ teaches are
such as we may venture our souls upon. Such is the Redeemer's mercy; and why should the labouring
and burdened sinner seek for rest from any other quarter? Let us come to him daily, for deliverance
from wrath and guilt, from sin and Satan, from all our cares, fears, and sorrows. But forced
obedience, far from being easy and light, is a heavy burden. In vain do we draw near to Jesus with
our lips, while the heart is far from him. Then come to Jesus to find rest for your souls.
Chapter 12