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The Light of Day and the Dark of Night
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mike FordDarkness, in a spiritual sense, is often associated with sin, despair, and hopelessness, which seem to intensify under the cover of night. The night, while a time for rest, frequently becomes a cloak for sin, as people believe their actions are hidden from sight. Historical events, such as the New York City blackout of 1977, demonstrate the chaos that ensues when physical light is absent, with looting, vandalism, and arson rampant in the darkness, revealing how the absence of light can mirror spiritual darkness. Spiritually, darkness is linked to the adversary, once called Lucifer or Helel, meaning morning star or light-bearer, who became associated with sin and darkness due to pride. This contrasts sharply with God, in whom there is no darkness at all, as He is light in its fullest sense. The call to turn from darkness to light is a call to move from being under the power of sin and the adversary to receiving forgiveness and an inheritance through faith, a process that requires God to open our eyes. The metaphor of light and darkness permeates the scriptures, illustrating the choice between walking in the light of day, which is love and obedience to God's truth, or stumbling in the dark of night, which is hate and sin. If hatred for a brother exists, one remains in darkness, whereas love for the brethren signifies walking in the light. The adversary, as a deceiver, may disguise darkness with artificial light, dressing up sin to appear appealing, as seen in places where bright lights mask underlying vices. Yet, no matter how sin is concealed, it cannot be hidden from God and will eventually come into the light of day. The ultimate victory over spiritual darkness is envisioned in a future where God's glory illuminates the New Jerusalem, with the Lamb as its light, suggesting a time when darkness, both physical and spiritual, will be no more. This reflects the profound truth that God is the source of light and truth, while the adversary represents lies and darkness, urging a life of reflection of God's light through obedience and love.
This Little Light of Mine
CGG Weekly by Gary MontgomeryNo sincere and humble Christian lives in vain. Even the feeblest light at midnight is of use. How brightly has our light shined this past year?
Believing is Seeing
Sermonette by Joseph B. BaityWe must walk in God's truth, seeing the spiritual path a little bit at a time until we arrive in the New Jerusalem, needing no external illumination.
The Radiance of God's Glory
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe so-called Age of Enlightenment replaced divine revelation with carnal human reason, replacing God's true light with Satan's counterfeit 'illumination.'
The Lord is My Light and Salvation
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsOf all the benefits that we have received from God, there are are few more remarkable than the possession of light and the ability to use it.
The Light of the World
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeChrist's teachings on the Eighth Day revolved around light and darkness, and twice on that Holy Day He proclaimed that He is the Light of the World.
Everlasting Light
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod's Spirit illumines the truth to the core of our beings. We must exemplify light in our testimony and behavior, anticipating our future glory of the New Jerusalem.
Christian Myopia
Article by StaffMyopia, or nearsightedness, is not just an eye condition. It also describes a worldview that is quite limited and limiting.
The Healing of a Man Born Blind (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAll of us have been born spiritually blind and have spent a great deal of our early lives in total darkness, oblivious to our need for salvation.
Truth (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWith the Spirit of God—the light of God—we see the true shape and form of things, and reality appears as something we can see clearly. We find truth.
Seeking God's Will (Part Seven): Conclusion
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs we walk in the light, we will prove to ourselves and others that God's way is best. Wisdom and understanding will accrue by keeping God's commandments.
Communication and Leaving Babylon (Part Three)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughChristians must continue to fight against self-centered and deception long after their calling to deepen and strengthen their relationships with God.
The Miracles of Jesus Christ: Healing Two Blind Men (Part One)
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsTwo blind men doggedly follow Jesus into a house so that He will restore their sight to them. Here are the lessons we can learn from these two supplicants.
Is America a Christian Nation? (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The Constitution, in some ways, makes a mockery of God's sovereignty, preferring a hodge-podge of syncretism of the world's religions.
You Have Not So Learned Christ
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhile the truth of Christ has the power to elevate, our worldly orientation blinds us, dulls our minds, and pulls us downward to abject slavery to sin.
Hope That Purifies
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe true Christian has the unique hope of becoming like Jesus Christ, sharing in His joy, power, and honor. Only the pure in heart will actually see God.
Facing Times of Stress: Lack of Clarity
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsMany people called by God realize the world is wrong, but also cannot see the way of God clearly, having an inability of seeing or comprehending the truth.