Why would the Lord invite those weary from labour to wear a yoke? And then, why would the Lord promise rest by inviting people to labour?
Life will present difficult situations. The only viable solution will, at times, involve taking a step back and regrouping mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Christians will, at times, desire to hide from the ones to whom they have been called to minister. Even Christ had times when He desired seclusion.
This verse, apart from John 3:16, may be the most recognized and certainly the most quoted verse by those who have little concern for God or the things of God. Matthew 7:1 also happens to be one of the most misinterpreted and misapplied verses in all of scripture. This verse is abused by non-Christians as well as those living a carnal lifestyle. Non-Christians do not want to be held to any biblical standard while carnal Christians attempt to use the verse to avoid having judgment passed upon them and their questionable actions. The spiritual Christian knows that the context of the verse simply discourages judging hypocritically. God never intended for His children to not judge. This passage, along with many others, simply points out the inexcusability of passing judgment upon matters where those judging are likewise guilty of the same actions. The point is not to avoid judgment altogether but to avoid hypocrisy while judging. This truth was taught during the Lord's ministry but also reiterated by the apostle Paul in Romans 2:1.
