Welcome to A Journey through the New Testament! In this series, we will systematically journey through every chapter in the New Testament, unveiling the marvelous insights that can be found in the scriptures.
In Matthew 5:14, Jesus declares, "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid."
Before delving into the significance, let's define two crucial terms:
DARKNESS: The power of the devil - sin and death.
LIGHT: The presence of the Holy Ghost.
Jesus proclaiming the sons of God as the light of the world holds profound meaning, especially considering the world's rule by the power of darkness (Ephesians 6:12), and mankind's inclination towards that darkness (Ephesians 2:2). Post-Adam's disobedience, sin became the birthright of every person, leading the Scriptures to not only acknowledge their living in darkness but also labeling humanity as darkness itself (Ephesians 5:8).
Yet, on that mount, Jesus declares a forthcoming transition. Despite the world lying in wickedness, there are chosen ones destined to be lights. How does this transformation occur? How can those steeped in manifestations of darkness become lights?
John 8:12 provides insight: "Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."
The light is the life of Christ—the resurrected life of Jesus, embodied in the Holy Ghost, entering those who believe. When filled with the Holy Ghost, individuals become lights, as God is light.
As lights, we have a purpose. Just as God's presence dispels and destroys the works of darkness on Earth, so must the sons of God shine and obliterate the works of darkness in the lives of others. Therefore, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Written by Kareem Flowers, Sunrise with Jesus
REFERENCE SCRIPTURES
John 3:19
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
John 8:12
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Ephesians 5:8
For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
1 Peter 2:9
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;
1 John 2:8
Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.
Psalm 82:5
They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.
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