Matthew 11:30
What does Matthew 11:30 mean?
A plain-English look at Matthew 11:30 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Matthew 11:30 means
Jesus concludes his invitation by declaring, "For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." This powerful statement contrasts sharply with the demanding religious systems of the day and underscores the gracious nature of following Christ. The "easy yoke" and "light burden" do not imply an absence of effort or commitment, but rather that obedient discipleship to Jesus, lived in reliance on his strength and grace, brings true joy and blessedness, rather than crushing legalism. It offers freedom and peace.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949For my yoke is good, and the weight I take up is not hard.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862for my yoke <FI>is<Fi> easy, and my burden is light.'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752For my yoke is sweet and my burden light.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Context
This verse provides the concluding assurance for Jesus' invitation, reiterating and explaining *why* his yoke offers rest. It emphatically states the ease and lightness of his burden, directly contrasting it with the heavy burdens that weighed people down. This final promise beautifully summarizes Jesus' offer of grace and freedom to those who come to him, bringing the chapter to a comforting close.
v.29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
v.30This passage
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 1 John 5:3
For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
- Philippians 4:13
I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.
- Galatians 5:1
For freedom did Christ set us free: stand fast therefore, and be not entangled again in a yoke of bondage.
- Acts 15:28
For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things:
- Galatians 5:18
But if ye are led by the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
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