(I Am Series)
 
Bro. Lito Dawa

Feb. 24, 2010
 
     Jn. 8:12 "I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."

        a) The symbolism of darkness.

            1. Used metaphorically to symbolize distress, mourning, perplexity, ignorance and death (Jb. 5:14).

            2. Used figuratively of moral depravity (Rom. 13:2-9).

        b) The reality of darkness

            1. Seen in the news (terrorism, war, oppression, sexual abuse, greed).

            2. Viewed in the media (pornography, filthy language).

            3. Experienced in life (adultery, physical and verbal abuse, false religions).

            4. As described by the apostle Paul, many walk in darkness (Eph. 4:17-19).

               a. In the futility of their minds,

               b. Darkened in their understanding,

               c. Alienated from the life of God,

               d. Ignorant because of the hardness of their heart,

               e. Handed themselves over to licentiousness.
 
     II. Jesus is the Light of the World

         A. He is the Light...  (Jn. 1:4-5,9)

             He is the light, not a light, indicating that he alone provides the true light. He alone provides the true and living way. As the light, Jesus is the source of life: the abundant life with peace, joy and love; the eternal life, including the resurrection.

             We must be wary of those who proclaim to offer "light." Some may be servants of Satan (2 Cor. 11:13-15). At best, one can only reflect what light Jesus has already bestowed.

        B. ...of the world

           1. Not only for the Jews, but for the Gentiles (the nations) as well as foretold by the prophets (Is. 49:6) and as commanded of His apostles (Acts 26:17-18).

           2. Available to all who believe, not an elect few; to everyone who believes in Jesus and to those who follow Jesus.

 
     III. For those who follow Him

         A. By becoming His disciple

             1. The word "disciple" means a follower, a learner. Only those who follow Him will have the light of life. Therefore, only those who become His disciples will walk in His light.

             2. How one becomes a disciple (or follower) of Jesus?

                 It begins with faith (Jn. 12:46) and it includes baptism (Mt. 28:19-20).

         B. By abiding in His Word

            1. Only by abiding in His Word do we truly become His disciples (Jn. 8:31).

            2. As we abide in His words, we not only walk in light, we become light!

 
     Are you confused, stumbling in a jungle of darkness, making a mess of your life? Come to Jesus, the light of the world, and follow Him. He will give you the light of life.

     You can become a light to others walking in darkness:

     As you reflect the light of Christ in your own life,

     As you abide in His teachings, and follow His doctrine.