This World Needs Light!

By: Gary L. Hutchens

​   The word “light” is used at least two hundred forty four times in the scriptures.  The first instance is in the creation account, when God created light for the earth (Gen. 1:2-5).  God then designed the sun to provide light upon the earth during the day and the moon and stars to provide lesser light at night.  Early mankind quickly learned to use fire for light in various forms.  Today, through continued technological advances, we have developed numerous forms of artificial light.  For life to exist this world needs light.

   But there is another kind of “light” repeatedly spoken of in the scriptures.  Spiritual light!  This world is in a dark place right now.  Just as the world needs the physical light of the sun, moon and stars for physical life to exist, it needs spiritual light to lead mankind to eternal life.  What is the source of this spiritual light?
   The apostle John wrote, “God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.” (1 Jn. 1:5-9).  The words “light” and “darkness” are used figuratively in this text to represent the difference between righteousness and unrighteousness, holiness and sinfulness.  God is absolute light in that He is absolutely righteous, pure and holy.
   Jesus Christ, as He came into this world as the Savior, was also characterized as being “light” (Jn. 1:1-13).  He stated, “I am the light of the world.  He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (Jn. 8:12).  Jesus came to lead humanity to forgiveness and salvation.  As the Savior He is the “light” of eternal life.
   God’s word is also “light.”  The psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” (Ps. 119:105).  It guides us in the way of righteousness.  The message of the gospel was described by the apostle Paul as “the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ,” (2 Cor. 4:3-4).  The gospel is God’s message of salvation through Jesus Christ.  It shows the sinner the way out of the darkness and condemnation of sin and into the light of forgiveness and eternal life.
   A life lived in righteousness can also serve as a “light” that vividly demonstrates the contrast between a righteous lifestyle and an unrighteous lifestyle.  Paul instructed, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Cor. 6:14).
   Now, let’s get personal.  As Christians we are supposed to be “light.”  Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”  As we live in faithful dedication and service to our Lord through our Christian example, people will see the light of Christ in us and thereby see the glory of God.  People need to see that light!
   The world is engulfed in the darkness of sin.  Humanity needs God’s light.  People need to see the light of their Savior Jesus Christ.  They need to look into the guiding light of the gospel and obey that message of salvation.  They need to see the light of righteousness.  They need to see the light of Christ through the lives of Christians.  Especially at a time such as this, this world really needs light!…
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