Sermon Notes

Understanding the Light of Christ

Discover the power of walking in the light of Christ. Learn how Jesus, the Light of the World, illuminates our path, dispels darkness, and guides us into a life of truth, purpose, and hope.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Watch the video of this teaching at https://www.celllifechurch.tv/understanding-the-light-of-christ/ or on our YouTube channel.

Introduction

The concept of light is prevalent throughout scripture, symbolizing God’s presence, purity, and truth. Jesus’ declaration as the Light of the World encapsulates His divine nature and the life-changing power He brings to our lives. As we begin our series on “Walking in the Light,” our first focus will be on understanding what it means for Jesus to be the Light, how we can walk in His light, and the profound impact this light has on us and the world around us. This journey will lay the foundation for a life lived in the truth and power of Christ.

The Source of the Light

Understanding the Light of Christ begins with recognizing Him as the source of all spiritual light. John 8:12 says:

John 8:12

(8)  When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

When Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world”, He is declaring that He is the only true and divine light that can guide humanity out of spiritual darkness.

Jesus as the Light reveals the nature of God to us. Without this light, we remain in spiritual darkness, unable to comprehend the truth. John 1:4-5 says:

John 1:4-5

(4)  In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.  (5)  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Christ’s light is the ultimate revelation of God’s character, His love, and His plan for salvation.

Unlike any other light, Christ’s light is eternal. It never fades, never diminishes, and never fails. It is the same yesterday, today, and forever. This eternal nature of Christ’s light assures us that we have a constant guide and source of hope in every situation.

The world is in a state of spiritual darkness due to sin. This darkness manifests as confusion, fear, and hopelessness. Christ’s light dispels this darkness by exposing sin and bringing clarity and truth. Ephesians 5:13 says:

Ephesians 5:13

(13)  But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light.

Psalm 119:105 beautifully describes the role of God’s word, and by extension Christ, as “a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” In a world filled with uncertainty, Christ’s light provides guidance, helping us to make decisions aligned with God’s will and leading us towards eternal life.

Walking in the Light

Once we understand that Jesus is the source of all spiritual light, the next step is learning to walk in that light. Walking in the light is an active, daily choice that involves living according to God’s truth and reflecting His character in our lives.

Ephesians 5:8 says:

Ephesians 5:8

(8)  For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light

Our identity shifts from being part of the darkness to becoming bearers of the light. This transformation is not just about avoiding sin but about actively pursuing righteousness and truth.

To live as children of light means embodying the qualities of goodness, righteousness, and truth in all aspects of life. This involves not just the actions we take but also the transformation of our hearts and minds, aligning our desires with God’s will.

Walking in the light requires a commitment to holiness, which means setting ourselves apart for God’s purposes. This involves regular self-examination, repentance, and a conscious effort to avoid sinful behaviors and attitudes.

Walking in the light also means being committed to the truth. This involves studying God’s Word, seeking His guidance in prayer, and being honest in our interactions with others. We are called to stand firm in the truth, even when it is challenging or unpopular.

As we walk in the light, we are called to reflect Christ’s light to those around us. This is done through acts of kindness, sharing the gospel, and living in a way that others can see Christ in us.

The Impact of the Light

The final aspect of understanding the Light of Christ is recognizing the impact that this light has on our lives and the world around us. Walking in the light is not just about personal transformation but also about influencing others and bringing the hope of Christ to a dark world.

When we walk in the light, the Holy Spirit works within us to bring about inner renewal. This renewal affects our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors, making us more like Christ. As our minds are renewed, we begin to see the world differently, through the lens of God’s truth and love.

Walking in the light also means experiencing freedom from the power of darkness. This freedom is not just about escaping the consequences of sin but about living a life of purpose, joy, and peace in Christ. The light of Christ breaks the chains of fear, guilt, and shame, allowing us to live as free children of God.

As we walk in the light, we become beacons of hope in a world that is often dark and despairing. Our lives should reflect the love, joy, and peace of Christ, drawing others towards the light. This influence is not about perfection but about authenticity; living out our faith in real, tangible ways that others can see and be inspired by.

Our mission as followers of Christ is to share the light we have received with others. This involves evangelism, discipleship, and simply being a witness to the truth of the gospel. Matthew 5:16 says:

Matthew 5:16

(16)  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

We are called to let our light shine before others so that they may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven.

Conclusion

Understanding the Light of Christ is foundational to our journey as believers. Jesus, the Light of the World, is the source of our life, direction, and truth. Walking in His light is a daily commitment that transforms our lives and allows us to reflect His light to others.

As we continue this series, we will explore how to maintain this walk, especially when faced with the challenges and darkness of the world. Let us embrace this calling with all our hearts, confident that as we walk in the light, we will experience the abundant life that God has promised.

Brian Conklin

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