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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?
About this Plan
“The Sermon on the Mount” is the title often given to chapters 5-7 of the Gospel of Matthew. It is a summary of the teaching of Jesus. Although the other Gospels present some similar passages in other contexts, it is likely that Jesus actually delivered this speech on only one occasion, but then repeated the same concepts several times on other occasions as well. Matthew Henry, the great Bible commentator, says that the purpose of the Sermon on the Mount is “not to fill our heads with notions, but to guide and regulate our practice”.
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