Westside Church of Christ

“You are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16).” It is neither a command nor a suggestion. It is simply a statement of fact that exposes the state of darkness that characterizes this creation and the role of disciples. Our role is not to blend in but to stand out.

Light has always had an integral role in the plan of God. It was among the first issues that He addressed in the creation (Genesis 1:1-5). He spoke it into existence, separated it from the darkness, saw its goodness and named it. God shook Egypt with a series of plagues to free His people from slavery and among them was total, can’t-see-your-hand-in-front-of-your-face darkness. Jesus came into a culture of darkness and declared Himself to be “the Light of the world (John 8:12).” The darkness was not happy. Indeed, it hated Him (John 3:19-20).

He exposes what evil wants to hide, and that is not welcomed. He passed that function on to a particular group of people. They are disciples. They shine in a noticeable way. Those who follow in the footsteps of their Savior stand out. Their journey is different. What makes them different? They share the same creative source as the original light. God’s will activated by His word.

Christians are disciples (Acts 11:26), people who have committed themselves to continue in the word of Jesus (John 8:31-32). They have been liberated from the slavery of sin to follow their Savior, and that changes them from the inside out. Their thoughts and pursuits are shaped by a different loyalty. Honesty replaces deception. The clouds of selfishness part, and the Son shines through.

“Let your light shine.” It’s tempting not to. Shining can be uncomfortable, but it is the purpose of light. We don’t buy a nice lamp and then hide it in the attic. In the same way, the Lord does not illuminate people for no reason. There is a world that needs what Christians have to offer, and that is important but there is more. Step out, shine properly and something amazing happens.

God is glorified when light functions appropriately and enables good works to be seen. It is never self-seeking for personal glory. It is not an exercise in look-what-I’ve-done so that we get that pat on the back. It deflects to the heavenly Father so that He is recognized and honored. Only then is the circuit complete.

Jesus came on a mission of mercy. His purpose was to seek and save the lost. Mission accomplished. In the process, He also shined a light of truth and reality on a dark world of deception and distortion that squinted and backed away. He revealed a unique way then enabled us to become light, too. The aim of it all is that God will be glorified. The Son of God did that by accomplishing His Father’s work. We will, too.

Call to Praise: Romans 8:31-39

His word on it: 1 John 4:10

Sermon: “God’s Eternal Love”