THEME: YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
TOPIC: THE LIFE OF LIGHT
TEXT: MATHEW 5:1-14
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INTRODUCTION
Jesus boldly declared in the course of His earthly ministry that He is the light of the world and whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness (John 8:12). However, He did not stop at that, He extended the assertion to include His followers when He told them “You are the light of the world, like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden” (Matt. 5:14 NLT). He clearly stated their identity and purpose by this statement. The purpose of light is to give direction, guidance, dispel darkness etc. In the same vein, every Christian is meant to be a beacon in darkness, providing spiritual/physical direction and guidance to a lost and dying world.
Jesus is the light that illuminates our lives as His followers and He expects us to reflect that light for all to see by the way we live.
In this study, we will examine the life of light, in other words, the life expected of believers as the light of the world. May the Lord grant us understanding in Jesus name. Amen.
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1.) Discuss the characteristics of the life of light from these passages. (Matt. 5:1-12; John 8:12; Phil. 2:4, 14-15; 1John 2:9-10)
2.) Where is a Christian expected to shine as light? (1Pt 2:12; Dan6:3; 1Chron4:9; 2Tim. 3:1-5). Wherever darkness is found in the spheres God has placed us we must shine.
3a.) In what ways can Christians show forth the light? (Tit3:1-2; Eph. 5:7,10-11; 1Pt3:14-15).
3b.) What happens when believers live as light? (Mt5:16; Acts 13:47).
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4.) What are the things that may hinder a christian from shinning as light? (2Cor. 6:14-15; Mk. 8:38; Matt. 10:22; 1John 2:15-16).
5.) How can the hindrances be handled? (John 15:5; Rom. 13:12; 2Tim. 3:14-17; Prov. 3:5-7).
6.) Identify the blessings that follow those that walk in the light. (Matt. 5:1-12; 1John 1:7-9; John 8:12, 31-32; Matt. 25:31-36).
CONCLUSION
When we live as true disciples of Jesus Christ, obeying the principles of God’s kingdom we shine as lights. Our environment is illuminated and the name of the Lord is glorified. May the Lord grant us the grace to shine as light wherever we find ourselves in Jesus name. Amen.
MEMORY VERSE: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)
Download this Bible Study Outline (Word Document) HERE