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This Little Light of Mine
CGG Weekly by Gary MontgomeryLight serves as a powerful symbol of goodness and truth in a world often shrouded in darkness. As a small candle can cast its beams far, so too can a good deed illuminate a corrupt environment. Jesus commands that our light should shine before others, so that through our good works, people may glorify our Father in Heaven. Even the feeblest light amidst the darkest hour holds value, showing that no sincere and humble life is lived in vain. In the profound darkness of a cavern, a single match can reveal the surroundings, demonstrating how even a small light can overpower immense darkness. This world often embraces darkness, where many believe their misdeeds remain hidden. Yet, the light of God surpasses all, penetrating and exposing hidden actions, for nothing remains concealed from Him. Jesus declares Himself as the true light of the world, promising that those who follow Him will not dwell in darkness. We are called to let this light guide us, to understand spiritual truths, and to live illuminated lives. By walking in the fullness of His light and practicing deeds that please Him, our light will shine brightly in an increasingly darkening world, reflecting love and kindness through our actions.
The Lord is My Light and Salvation
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLight, as a symbol, holds profound significance in revealing the nature and work of God. It represents truth, goodness, and God's redemptive presence, standing as the great antithesis and conqueror of darkness, which symbolizes error, evil, and the works of satan. God is the only trustworthy source of true everlasting light, embodying purity and holiness, and dwelling in unapproachable light that reflects His divine glory. In the creation account, light's rulership over the universe is evident, with God creating the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night, evoking awe akin to a subject's reverence for a benevolent king. Light symbolizes spiritual illumination, opening the capabilities of the mind, intellect, conscience, reason, and will through the indwelling Spirit of God. It cheers the spirit, portraying spiritual joy and the beneficial influences of peace. Throughout Scripture, light is associated with God's holiness and moral perfection, covering Him as a garment and defining the radiant heaven where He dwells. It symbolizes salvation and the new life, as Jesus Christ declared Himself the light of the world, promising that those who follow Him will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life. Christ, as the eternal Word, manifests the divine nature as Life, Love, and Light, becoming the Teacher, Enlightener, Guide, and Savior of humanity by giving understanding, truth, and wisdom. In the ultimate vision of the New Jerusalem, the glory of God provides everlasting light, eliminating the need for sun or moon, as the presence of the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb illuminates the holy city. This light signifies the final triumph of goodness, truth, and holiness, where darkness is obliterated, and the redeemed dwell eternally in the radiant presence of God, walking in His light forever.
The Light of Day and the Dark of Night
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mike FordLight, as a symbol, carries profound significance throughout the biblical narrative, representing God's presence and truth. From the very beginning, as seen in Genesis 1:3, God commanded, "Let there be light," and there was light, encompassing the sun, moon, stars, daybreak, and even God as our light, derived from the Hebrew word "owr." This light is not merely physical but symbolizes prosperity and divine guidance. In I John 1:5, it is declared that God is light, with no darkness in Him at all, highlighting the absence of sin or despair in His essence. Conversely, darkness is associated with sin and the adversary, once called Lucifer or Helel, meaning morning star or light-bearer, who became linked with darkness due to pride. The metaphor of light and darkness permeates the scriptures, illustrating the contrast between righteousness and sin. In John 11, Jesus speaks of working while daylight remains, symbolizing the urgency of His mission before the darkness of His impending death. This theme continues in John 1 and I John, where walking in the light means repenting of sins and following truth, with Christ as our advocate. Darkness, often equated with night, hides sin, as seen in historical events like the 1977 New York City blackout, where chaos and looting erupted under cover of darkness. Satan, described in II Corinthians 11:14 as transforming himself into an angel of light, deceives by dressing up sin with false illumination, masking its true nature. In contrast, believers are called to reflect God's true light, as in Luke 11, by seeing and obeying His laws clearly, avoiding evil, and walking in righteousness. This dichotomy of light as truth and darkness as deception runs from Genesis to Revelation. In the prophetic vision of Revelation 21, the New Jerusalem is illuminated by the glory of God, with the Lamb as its light, suggesting a future where physical light sources like the sun may not be needed in the presence of divine radiance. The earth itself, as foretold in Ezekiel 43:2, will shine with His glory, indicating a transformative illumination that transcends natural light. Thus, light symbolizes not only God's creative power and truth but also the ultimate hope and purity of His eternal kingdom.
How Bright is Your Light?
Sermonette by Ryan McClureDo we let our lights shine through our lives by godly conduct, or are we trying to blend in with the world, compromising so as not to stand apart?
The Prophesied Creation of Light
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles WhitakerGod's command, "Let there be light," uttered on the first day of creation, carries a profound significance beyond the physical illumination of the world. This ancient directive is linked to His ongoing spiritual work with humanity, as the same God who created the heavens and the earth commands light to shine in our minds, revealing the deep things of His purpose. Without this divine light, our understanding of Him would be confined to the evidence of His nature and power in the physical creation. Under the inspiration of God's Spirit, this command for light is translated into a future tense, indicating that light will shine out of darkness. This light does not merely rest on the surface but emanates from within the darkness itself, a distinct and transformative force created by God yet separate from Him. It shines in the chaos, embodying the boundless power of God's Spirit to accomplish His purposes. Jesus Christ instructs His followers to let their light shine before men, so that their good works may glorify their Father in heaven. This light, though engendered and sustained by Him, is described as belonging to the individual, burning within independent beings who were once enveloped in darkness. Though empowered by the same divine source, each remains a separate entity, transformed by His light into a unique point of illumination. Ultimately, the creation of light is prophesied to continue until there are billions of such points of light, each distinguished from the Father of lights as separate beings, yet aligned with Him in character and purpose. This light, sent out from Jesus Christ, confronts and transforms darkness, facilitating His plans through an organized and fruitful creation.
Parable of the Light
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn the Parable of the Light, Jesus Christ uses the figures of a city on a hill and a lamp on a lampstand to express the responsibility of true Christians to influence the world. A city on a hill can be seen from afar, representing a disciple's far-ranging exposure to others. A shining lamp illuminates the home, suggesting a disciple's intimate influence. A Christian's actions cannot be hidden from families or the world, so he must live a righteous, holy, humble, and pure life, letting his light shine before men to glorify the Father in heaven. Light is of a three-fold nature: natural, artificial, and spiritual. The light of the sun is natural, rendering objects visible and showing their form, nature, beauty, and sometimes deformities. The light of a lamp is artificial. The light of the Word and its believers is spiritual. The light of the world often denotes the sun, but the phrase is preeminently applied to Jesus Christ because He is to the moral world what the sun is to the natural world. The apostles, ministers, and all Christians are lights of the world because they, by their witness, show what God requires, what man's condition is, and what way leads to the Kingdom of God. Light should not be hidden because when a person lights a lamp, he does not conceal it but places it where it may be of use. Jesus enlightens His disciples so that others might see the light and benefit from it. God gives His truth to benefit others, and it should not be concealed but show itself in stark contrast to the wicked world, exposing and instructing it. If a light is concealed under a basket, no one benefits from it, but considerate people place a lamp so that its benefits reach all in the house. A Christian's righteous life, pleasant attitude, and good works, including pure conversation and faithful obedience, should shine in view of others. We can give no light until we receive the grace of God and the enlightenment that comes through the Holy Spirit. Our lives must produce the fruit of the Spirit, reflecting the shining example of Jesus Christ. Humbly, in all communities, in all business, at home and abroad, in prosperity and adversity, it should be clear that we adhere to God's way of life. Letting our examples shine requires resisting the influence of the world, for we cannot have a light that shines while living with the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and pride of life. A Christian should let his light shine not to be praised by others but to bring glory to the Father. True Christians behave to glorify God, caring little what people think of them. By conduct, not pomp, others may be brought to honor God. We should live so that people see from our good works the proper nature of God's way of life. Good works cannot be hidden because they stand in stark contrast to the ways of this wicked world, and they are required behavior at home and in the outside world. The Father is glorified by bearing the fruit of the Spirit and doing good works, by correctly praising and honoring Him, and by being led to worship Him properly in obedience. We provide a witness to the world when they see in our lives the excellence of God's way and the power and purity of the truth. Five principles emerge from this parable: God's truth cannot be concealed; where light is not manifest in our lives, we make no witness; those who profess Christianity yet live like worldly people prove they are not truly converted; attempting to hide our Christianity betrays God's trust, injures the cause of goodness, and renders our lives useless; good actions will be seen, leading people to honor God. No sincere and humble Christian lives in vain, for at midnight even the feeblest light is of use.
Everlasting Light
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLight, as a symbol, holds profound significance, representing truth, goodness, and purity. It stands as the great antithesis and conqueror of darkness, which symbolizes evil, error, and ignorance. In the creation account, God established light's rulership over the universe, creating the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night, evoking a sense of awe and benevolence. Light is not self-generated but comes from above, transforming the earthly sphere with transcendent splendor, both physically and spiritually. It permeates everyday life, embodying holiness and purity as an attribute of God, who is Himself light. Throughout biblical imagery, light is associated with spiritual illumination, flooding the mind with truth and understanding through the indwelling Spirit of God. It cheers and renders life prosperous, symbolizing spiritual joy and the happy influences of the Spirit of peace. God's presence and grace manifest as a marvelous light to His people, and the vision of final triumph includes the promise that the Lord will be an everlasting light. Light also represents the Messiah, with Jesus Christ embodying spiritual illumination, declaring Himself the light of the world, bringing God's truth and understanding to humanity. In the ultimate vision of the new heavens and new earth, the New Jerusalem will be illuminated by the glory of God, with no need for sun or moon, as the presence of God and the Lamb will be its light. This everlasting light will obliterate all traces of darkness, ensuring perfect knowledge, joy, and holiness forever. God, as the only true source of everlasting light, embodies truth, goodness, purity, righteousness, and justice, and His servants will reign with Christ in this eternal radiance.
Are You Light In The Lord?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsLight is a revealer of truth and a means to expose error. When we receive God's Holy Spirit with Christ dwelling in us, we become a light to the world.
Be a Lighthouse
Sermon by Ted E. BowlingThe metaphor of a lighthouse aptly describes the role of the saints in a darkened world, providing hope, guidance, and stability.
The Christian Walk (Part Two): In Light
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTo His disciples, Christ admonishes us to follow the light, imitate (or do) the light, and become sons of the light; to not just reflect light but become it.
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.'
What is Acceptable to the Lord
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWhile Jesus associated with harlots and publicans, He did not condone their works nor had fellowship with the works of darkness. We must follow His example.
Approaching God Through Christ (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThough the menorah has been paired with Judaism, it should more properly be associated with Jesus Christ, the Light of the World.
Are the Blood Moons Significant? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWhen the lights in the heavens are darkened, it indicates that the time is up, and judgment is at hand. Something—such as a nation—is coming to an end.
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.
Matthew (Part Six)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThose who are meek are capable of anger but keep it under control. They are humble, open-minded, willing to listen, don't jump to conclusions, and aren't defensive.
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.
The Absence-Presence Dichotomy and God's Spirit
Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Paul's use of the presence-absence dichotomy clarified that absence does not materially affect the Work of God because the same Holy Spirit is always present.
Christ, the Chief Cornerstone
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIf a foundation is flawed, the building cannot stand. God built His spiritual temple on the prophets and the apostles, and Jesus Christ is the chief cornerstone.
Forgiving, Giving, and Living
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod possesses attributes that are His alone, like omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience. But there are other attributes that become part of our new nature.
Speaking the Truth in Love
Sermon by Bill OnisickOur speech reveals the true condition of our hearts. Even truthful words can be brandished as tools of destruction when delivered with pride or malice.
Preventing Deception
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughReligious hucksters use the bait of self-gratification, selling non-essential or even heretical ideas. The elect resist deception by knowing the real article.