Sermon on Let Your Light Shine

"Let Your Light Shine: Be a Beacon of God's Love"

The profound call in Matthew 5:16, where Jesus says, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." This call to shine as lights in a dark world is not merely a suggestion; it's an imperative for every follower of Christ. As we dive into this message, we will consider the source of our light, reflecting Christ's light, lighting up a dark world, the impact of our good works, and the consequences of hiding our light.

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The Torch—Our Godly Example

A. We are to be lights to the world (Matthew 5:14-16).
B. We are instructed to be examples (1 Timothy 4:12).
C. We will influence others – good or bad (Romans 14:7).
D. We must be the reflection of Jesus in today's world.

The Bible and the Light

The consequence of not having light:

Despite the benefits of light, some prefer darkness: Isa 5:20, 8:20, John. 3:19, 20, 21, Job 24:13.
Light and darkness are incompatible, one cancels the other: Isa. 50:10, 2 Cor. 6:14.
Jesus is the light of the world. (John 8: 12).
Christians radiate the light of Jesus. Matt. 5: 14-16, Acts 26: 18, Colossians 1:12, I Thess. 5:5, Phil. 2: 15.

I. "The Source of Our Light" (Matthew 5:16)" (Matthew 5:16)

In Matthew 5:16, Jesus reveals that our light is not self-generated but comes from a divine source. He is the source of our light, and as we draw near to Him, His radiance shines through us. Our light is a reflection of His light.

II. "Reflecting on the Light of Christ" (2 Corinthians 4:6)

2 Corinthians 4:6 tells us that God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made His light shine in our hearts. We are called to reflect the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. The more we contemplate and walk with Him, the brighter our light becomes.

III. "To Light not Dark World" (Philippians 2:15)

In Philippians 2:15, Paul encourages us to be blameless and pure, shining as lights in a dark and twisted world. Our lives should be a stark contrast to the darkness around us, revealing the hope and truth found in Christ.

IV. "The Light of the Good Work" (Matthew 5:14-15)

In the preceding verses (Matthew 5:14-15), Jesus describes us as the light of the world. We are to be like a city on a hill, impossible to hide. Our good works should illuminate the path for others and draw them to God's glory.

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V. "Avoiding Hiding Light" (Luke 11:33)

Luke 11:33 warns against hiding our light under a basket. When we conceal our faith, we deprive the world of the hope it desperately needs. Let us not allow fear or complacency to dim our light.

Conclusion:

As we meditate on these Scriptures, we understand that our light is not our own but is borrowed from the great Light, Jesus Christ. He has placed this light within us to shine His love, grace, and truth into a world engulfed in darkness. As we reflect His light, we bring glory to our Father in heaven. So, let us not hide our light but boldly and unashamedly shine before others, illuminating the way to our Savior. By doing so, we fulfill our calling as bearers of God's love and grace. Let your light shine, and may it bring glory to our Father in heaven.