The Sermon on the Mountنموونە

The light of the world

In John 8:12, Jesus declared himself to be the light of the world, bringing light to those who followed Him. This task was passed on to the disciples (John 9:5; 12:35,36) and then to all believers (Philippians 2:14-16). We must shine in two ways:

• A town built on a hill: the local church in society
• A lamp on a lampstand: the believer in their own home

In both cases, we must be visible to the world as an example, a challenge, and an encouragement. Light is a symbol of life (John 1:4), and rejecting it leads to death. That is why the light must reach everywhere as clearly as possible.

The goal of witnessing is to glorify the Father, not to promote ourselves (1 Peter 2:11,12). The fact that others should see or observe our good works implies that they will continue over time, and therefore, our testimony must continue without interruption.

• Does your life reflect the light of Christ in this world?
• Does your lamp shine in your home, or is it under a bowl?
• Are you part of a church that shines with the light of Christ in the world?