I Am the Light of the World

In today's message, we looked at Jesus' second metaphorical "I Am" statement: I am the light of the world. Walking around in spiritual darkness produces fear and fatigue. God's alternative is so much better. He offers us relief, peace, healing and hope as he calls us to walk in the light.  As with many things, the first step is the hardest, but it is so worth it. Jesus' message to all of us is "put your trust in the light while you have the light so that you may become children of light," (John 12:36a TNIV).

When you have time, read the brief commentary below and check out this week's featured resource. Take care...

  

The Light of the World Discourse (8:12-59)

A major feature of the Feast of Tabernacles was the lighting of giant lamps in the women’s court in the temple (see the sketch). The wicks were made from the priests’ worn-out garments. The light illuminated the temple area and the people gathered to sing praises and dance. The light reminded the Jewish people of how God was with them in their wanderings in the wilderness in a pillar of cloud which turned to fire at night (Num. 9:15-23).

8:12. This discourse continues Jesus’ public teaching in the city of Jerusalem in the temple area. How fitting that during the Feast of Tabernacles, when the large lamps were burning, Jesus... said, I am the Light of the world(cf. 1:4, 9; 12:35, 46). The world is in darkness, a symbol of evil, sin, and ignorance (Isa. 9:2; Matt. 4:16; 27:45; John 3:19). “Light” in the Bible is a symbol of God and His holiness (Acts 9:3; 1 John 1:5). Jesus is “the Light,” not merely a light or another light among many lights. He is the only Light, “the true Light” (John 1:9), for the whole world. When Jesus said, Whoever follows Me,He meant whoever believes and obeys Him (cf. 10:4-5, 27; 12:26; 21:19-20, 22). Jesus was speaking of salvation.

Coming to Christ for salvation results in a different kind of life. A believer will never walk in darkness,that is, he will not live in it (cf. 12:46; 1 John 1:6-7). He does not remain in the realm of evil and ignorance (John 12:46) for he has Christ as his Lightand salvation (cf. Ps. 36:9).

—Bible Knowledge Commentary