YOKE

Definition:

Service (also see definition for “Ox/Donkey”).

Scripture:

• Paul calls servants those “under the yoke.”

1 Timothy 6:1 (KJV) Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.

• The works of the law are often called a yoke.

Galatians 5:1 (KJV) Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Acts 15:10 (KJV) Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

• A yoke is used synonymously with a burden (something to carry, responsibility). Jesus says that the only yoke and burden (something to carry) He gives is to simply learn from Him. 

Matthew 11:29-30 (KJV) Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

• Israel’s service to Nebuchadnezzar is called a yoke.

Jeremiah 28:14 (KJV) For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and they shall serve him: and I have given him the beasts of the field also.

• Paul uses the term “fellow laborers” in the same context as the term “yoke fellow,” insinuating that being under a yoke together is serving/working together.

Philippians 4:3 (KJV) And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.