Woe to an Unresponsive Generation - Conclusion

 After Jesus characterizes the generation as unresponsivbe, he singles out for reproach the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, where he has done powerful works.  Jesus says that if he had performed such works in the Phoenician cities of  Tyre and Sidon, those cities would have repented. He also mentions Capernaum, which has been his home base for some time.  Even there, most did not respond.   Jesus says of that city:  "It will be more endurable for the land of Sodom on Judgment Day than for you." - MATTHEW 11:24.  

Jesus then praises his Father who hides  precious spiritual truths "from the wise and intellectual ones" but reveals these things to lowly ones, who are like young children. (Matthew 11:25)  He extends an appealing invitation to such ones:  "Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for yourselves. For my yoke is kindly, and my load is light." - MATTHEW 11:28-30. 

How does Jesus offer refreshment?  The religous leaders have burdened the people with enslaving traditions, such as overl restrictive Sabbath regulations.  But Jesus refreshes them by preaching the truth of God, free from the taint  of those traditions. He also shows the way of relief to those who are crushed by the domination of political authorities and to those who feel weighed down by sin.  Yes, Jesus reveals to them how their sins can be forgiven and how they can be at peace with God.

All of those accepting Jesus' kindly yoke fcan deicate themselves to God and serve  our compassionate, merciful Father.  Doing do does not resolve  a heavy load, for God's requirements are not at all burdensom. - 1 JOHN 5:3. 

Next time: "Believe in Jesus" Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation? 

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