The Light of Accountability

 Temple Baptist Church - 12-20-2023

John 12:32-40

 

Introduction:

A.  In chapter 12, we find the great rejection of Israel’s Messiah and our wonderful Lord and Saviour.

 

B.  Our Lord’s entrance into Jerusalem was the last week of His life here on earth as Israel as a nation would reject and crucify Him.  The “natural olive branch” was broken off.

 

C.  We also see the introduction of Greeks who, when they heard of the commotion around Christ, said, “Sir, we would see Jesus.”   The “unnatural wild olive branch”, the Greeks or Gentile, grafted in.

 

D.  Here we find that both the Nation of Israel and the Gentiles responded to the light given, but in very different ways.  Both knew of the miracles performed by Christ, and both heard Christ speak but the Jews rejected (John 1:11) and the Gentiles accepted (John 1:12).

 

1.  The Nation of Israel rejected their Messiah.  John 12:37-40  But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:  (38)  That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?  (39)  Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again,  (40)  He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.  (They could no longer believe because they had rejected the “light” that God gave them.  Light turned into darkness which turned into blindness!)

 

2.  Paul mention the Jews rejection in Romans.  Romans 10:16  But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

 

E.  In our text, we find that there were both Jews and Greeks that came to the “Light of the World” in faith but there were also many who did not respond having the same “Light”.

 

John 12:41 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:

 

F.  John 12:35-36 gives admonition to the reader concerning the “Light of God”,

 

John 12:35-36  Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.  (36)  While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.

 

1.  We find the Light.  “the light”  The importance of light: it is essential for decision making and work.

 

2.  We find the brevity of the Light.  “Yet a little while”  Here we find that light is not a thing of longevity in the hearts of people.  Take advantage of it.

 

3.  We find the responsibility of the Light.  “Walk”  “Make haste while the sun shines” is a familiar saying that we should all follow while the light shines.

 

4.  We find the individuality of the Light.  “ye”  We live in days of victimization which causes us to blame others for our spiritual and physical condition.  Here we find person responsibility. 

 

5.  We find the warning of the Light.  “while ye have the light”  The time will come when darkness replaces light when light is not reacted to in a right way.

 

6.  We find decreasing of the Light.  “lest darkness come upon you”  Darkness is sneaky as it starts with dimness and ends with total darkness.  If light is not properly reacted to, darkness WILL eventually replace it.

 

7.  We find the blindness of the loss of Light.  “knoweth not whither he goeth.”  A total lack of light brings about a total loss of sight, both physically and spiritually.

 

8.  We find the continuation of the Light.  “believe in the light”  When we believe within the realm of spiritual light, then we find more light and brighter light.

 

9.  We find the product of the Light.  “that ye may be the children of light”  Light begats light and spiritual light begats children of God.

 

G.  I want to look at four “Lights” that God gives to mankind and man’s responsibilities concerning these “Lights”.

 

1.  The Internal Light of the Spirit.  Every person is born with an internal light, which is the life of God.  A natural recognition of Deity.  Worship is inherent in the nature of man.  God gives to every man the knowledge of the Creator. 

 

Proverbs 20:27  The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.

 

John 1:4, 9  In him was life; and the life was the light of men ...  That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

 

2.  The Natural Light of Creation.  The Creation of the World established a “Tabernacle for the sun”: a place of worship for all mankind.  Evolution is “The Fool’s Folly”.

 

Psalms 19:1-4  To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.  (2)  Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.  (3)  There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.  (4)  Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,

 

Romans 1:20  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

 

Hebrews 11:3  Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

 

3.  The Inscribed Light of the Scriptures.  Until this day, we continue to have the Light of the Scriptures.

 

Psalms 119:105  NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

 

2 Peter 1:19  We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

 

4.  The Incarnate Light of the Messiah, Christ Jesus.  Jesus Christ was and still is the “Light of the world”.  We see Jesus Christ through the 3^rd “Light” of the Scriptures.

 

John 8:12  Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

 

1 Peter 1:8  Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

 

Conclusion:  These “Lights” are here to lead mankind to a saving knowledge of Christ Jesus, our Lord.  We MUST respond to the “Lights of God” to be saved and serving.

The Light of God

Temple Baptist Church - 8-18-2013

 

Psalm 36:9

 

Introduction:

A. In our study of God’s light, we need to go back to the First Mention Principle of Bible interpretation for a minute.

1. In the creation, the first thing that God did was give light.

Genesis 1:1-3 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. (2) And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. (3) And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. (This light that was first given was the eternal light of God’s presence. There was neither natural nor artificial light. There was no sun, moon, or stars. There was no candle, camp fire, or electricity. It was the light of God.)

2. The Bible declares that God is light.

1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (God does not produce light: God is light and in Him is no darkness at all!)

3. The Bible declares that God dwells in light. We often hear the term “Shekinah Gory” of God. The word “Shekinah” is not found in the Bible but its concept is found all over the Bible.

Exodus 33:22-23 And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: (23) And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen. ( This glory of God caused Moses’ face to shine for a long period of time so that he had to place a veil over his face in front of the Israelite people.)

1 Timothy 6:16 Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. (This light refers to His holiness for it is a light that sinful man cannot stand its presence. The Bible refers to God as a “consuming fire.”)

4. The Bible declares the eternality of God’s light.

Revelation 21:23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

Revelation 22:5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. (In the end of time, we find once again the eternal light of God. Once again, there will be no natural or artificial light as the heavens are “fled away” and the Lamb will be the light of eternity.)

B.    Our text states that “in thy light shall we see light.” This light is not a reference to natural or artificial light but the light that God gives to man: the light that reveals both His wonderful Person and His perfect Purpose for mankind.

C.  Let us look at this “light of God” for a few minutes.

1. The Light of Comprehension. John 1:1-5 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (2) The same was in the beginning with God. (3) All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. (4) In him was life; and the life was the light of men. (5) And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

a. Notice the direct correlation between Jesus Christ, the Word, and light. These three are one and the same. You cannot eliminate one with without eliminating all three. God gives to every man the “light” of God. An inherent revelation of God’s being is in every child born into this world.

b. As man accepts this inherent light, God progressively manifests His person and presence through continuation of this light. Romans 1:18-21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (19) Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. (20) For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (21) Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

2. The Light of Clarification. John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

a. Scripture reveals Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: (Jesus Christ is not “a light.” Jesus Christ is The Light!)

b. Satan blinds the world to this Light. 2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

c. Sinners reject Jesus Christ through their love for darkness. John 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

3. The Light of Conversion. Acts 9:3-5 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: (4) And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? (5) And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

a. Conviction: The Scripture makes sinners tremble. Acts 9:6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Acts 24:25 And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

b. Conversion: The Scripture makes sinners saints. Romans 10:14-17 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? (15) And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! (16) But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? (17) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

c. Condemnation: The Scripture will judge the rejecter. John 12:48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

4. The Light of Confidence. The Bible is God’s Light to guide the believer.

a. In the Light of Scripture, we have the light of safety. Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

b. In the Light of Scripture, we—as believers—have a continuing light of surety: the revelation of God’s way and G0d’s will for our lives. Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

c. A Light to encourage the believer. 2 Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

Walking In The Light

Temple Baptist Church - 1-22-2012

1 John 1:5-7

Introduction:

A. Two weeks ago, I preached on the subject of “Fellowship.” Fellowship or getting along within the local church is essential to the well-being and work of the church. A house divided “against itself” cannot stand. Not divided by the world or Satan or doctrine, but by personality conflicts. I used three “L’s” that are the basis for fellowship or division: light, love, and lust.

B. Last Sunday morning, I preached on the “Seven Aspects of Divine Love.” Love is essential to peace among the brethren as we all have different personalities, likes and dislikes, opinions, and preferences.

C. This morning, I want to look at the “L” of Light. “If we walk in the light, as he is in the light.” The bible declares that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. Therefore, walking in the light is essential to fellowship with God and each other.

D. I want to look at the first mention of light and darkness found in Genesis 1.

Genesis 1:1-5 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. (2) And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. (3) And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. (4) And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. (5) And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.

1. Darkness – to hide or obscurity

2. Light – luminous, clear or glorious, complete visibility

3. Divided – to sever or distinguish

4. We often use the axiom “as different as day and night.” These are opposites.

5. God saw the light and said that it was “good” and divided it from the darkness about which nothing was said. Thus giving the immediate impression that, if the two are opposites, then the day or “light” was good and the darkness or “night” was not.

E. I understand that the night, as far as the twenty four period is concerned, is not in itself evil but the spiritual application is different. Night in the bible is a time of sin and sorrow. The night comes in which man does not work (at least in years gone by) so man sleeps it away in order to rest for the following day.

F. In our text found in 1 John 1, we find that light is good and holy while darkness is bad and sinful. This is the proper interpretation of these verses; therefore, it is both good and holy to walk in the light while it is bad and sinful to walk in darkness. Darkness breaks fellowship with God and, therefore, with man.

G. Four things walking in the light does:

1. Light Discloses Our Sin - 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

John 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. (20) For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. (21) But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

2. Light Defines Our Security – Psalms 4:6-8 There be many that say, Who will shew us any good? LORD, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. (7) Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. (8) I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.

3. Light Directs Our Steps - Psalms 36:9 For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.

Proverbs 3:21-24 My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion: (22) So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. (23) Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. (24) When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

4. Light Displays Our Saviour - 2 Corinthians 4:5-6 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. (6) For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Walking In The Light

Temple Baptist Church - 5-31-2011

Ephesians 5:1-14

Introduction:

A. Now we find a list of sins that, though they are wicked and characterize the world, they are a possibility for the child of God to commit. Many believers (I use the word “believers” and not “Christians”) have fallen prey to the wickedness of their flesh, thus bringing reproach to the name of Christ and incurring the judgment of God.

B. If we “follow God” and “walk in love,” the following list is not a problem. When we “follow God” and “walk in love,” we control both our imaginations and flesh. Our heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked and our old nature is alive and doing well if we feed it.

C. The problem with sin in the life of the believer is a constant reminder that our flesh is not saved. The problem with our living in sin has to do with our disobedience to the Word of God.

1. We see the life of Lot - Genesis 13:12 Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom. (This verse is in direct violation of 1Thess. 4:22 which says, “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”)

2. We see the life of Demas - Timothy 4:10a For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world… (This verse is in direct violation of 1 John 2:15 which says, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”)

D. These sins are entirely avoidable though many succumb to them. A verse that may be of great help is found in the “Hall of Faith” chapter:

Hebrews 11:15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. (“Mindful” means to reherse the memory. Mind Full is the problem with sinfulness in our lives.)

E. There are several “negative” aspects to willful, presumptuous sin in the life of the believer that I want to deal with tonight. Yes, we do have choices; yes, we can still sin; yes, we can act just like the world; yes, we can even return to our old life. I find it amazing that, when we were lost, it was “vomit” in our mouths that made us turn to Christ. Isn’t it amazing how we, like the dog and sow, return to the very things that made us “throw up” spiritually just a few years ago!!

1. Our sinfulness is displeasing to our Lord! Hebrews 10:38-39 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (I am not speaking of anger alone; I am speaking of a displeasing of our Lord who loves us and gave His best for our salvation. I am speaking of the wonderful Kinsman Redeemer who bought us off of the “slave block” of sin with His own blood. We try to please our boss at work; we try to please our mates and family; we try to please the people of this world and care not if we please or displease the One who loves us the most.)

Hebrews 10:39 says, “But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” We cannot lose our salvation but our lives can be displeasing to our Lord.

2. We can suffer a loss of rewards! Vs. 5 1 Corinthians 3:14-15 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. (15) If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. (The loss of rewards is not an eternal loss. I find no place in the Bible where there are degrees of heaven. After Revelation 20, we find no tears in the eyes of the believer. There is one street in the Holy Jerusalem; no back streets but all equally living on the same street. Loss of rewards has to do with two things:)

a. A loss of crowns at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Revelation 4:10-11 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, (11) Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. (Crowns to be cast at the feet of our Lord for He alone is worthy to wear them. What a shame to have nothing to give to Him!)

b. A loss of position in our ruling with the Lord for 1,000 years during the Golden Age of the Millennium. Luke 19:16-26 Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds. (17) And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities… And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five citiesAnd he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds. (25) (And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.) (26) For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. (Our position with Christ will depend upon our faithfulness in this life during the Millennium.)

3. We can be chastened of the Lord! Vs. 6 Hebrews 12:5-7 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: (6) For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. (7) If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? (The Lord’s chastening is progressive in nature. He speaks to our hearts through God’s Word and or God’s men. If sin is not gotten right, He progressively chastens. If this chastening does not bring about the right results, he “scourgeth” which can end in a premature death for the child of God.)

4. Our life can bring shame upon us, our family, our church, and—most importantly—the name of our Lord! Vs. 12-13 Ephesians 5:3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints. (A testimony for the Lord is not easily built; it can be quickly destroyed; and almost impossible to rebuild to its original glory. The Lord will forgive and forget; elephants may or may not forget; but people do not forget and many will not forgive.)

5. How do we maintain our walk of light with the Lord? Vs. 13-16

a. Awake to the fact that sin made you miserable before you were saved and it will make you much more miserable now! Simple enough?

b. Rise up and seek those things that are above! Colossians 3:1-3 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (3) For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

We often sacrifice the eternal for the temporal. We choose that which we cannot keep over that which we cannot lose! 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (18) While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

c. Walk in the Light! Why stumble along in the darkness of this world when we have the light of life. John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

d. Redeem our time. Stay busy for the Lord! “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.” Ephesians 5:16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Let There Be Light

Temple Baptist Church - 10-25-2009

Genesis 1:1-5

Introduction:

A. The most wondrous verses of the Bible are found in the beginning of creation! I am in AWE! I stand overwhelmed when I allow my mind to drift back to the time of the beginning when God said, “In the beginning God!” Here we find a theological statement beyond our comprehension. “In the beginning God!” “From everlasting to everlasting, thou ART God!”

B. I stand amazed that God was, God is, and God will always be! He needs nothing! He needs no one! He is self-contained! He is self-reliant! He is self-existing! He is God!

C. Here in the beginning, we find several truths concerning light.

1. There was a “natural” absence of light. God created the heavens and the earth both in darkness. Light, as we understand it, always has a specific source. Fire, electricity, heavenly bodies, lightening, etc.
2. Light was brought forth out of darkness.

3. Light was divided from darkness.

4. Light was good.

D. Light is essential to life. This is scientific fact that cannot be denied. It is through photosynthesis that we have the oxygen that we breathe. As physical life is dependent upon light, so is spiritual life dependent upon light.

Psalms 36:9 For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. (It is through the light of God that we see spiritual light and, therefore spiritual life.)

E. I want to look at several on the multitude of mentions of light in the Bible.

1. The Light Of Creation - 2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

a. Light is essential to Illumination. We find in these verses that God, when creating the heavens and the earth, created them in darkness! In the first 5 verses on Genesis, we find that God’s second creative act brought forth light out of darkness! This is an amazing statement that is vital to the truth of light in the Bible.

b. There was no obvious source of light in the beginning. We get light from the heavenly bodies but they were not yet created. We get light from various sources today but they were not yet manufactured. God brought forth light out of darkness! An act that only God can do! We will find that God consistently brings forth light out of darkness.

c. Light is essential to life. Light came before life! Light came before animal, plant, or human life!

2. The Light Of Inspiration - 2 Peter 1:19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

2 Peter 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (Without the inspiration of Scripture, we would have neither revelation of God or prophecies concerning His Son, Jesus Christ.)

3. The Light Of Incarnation - John 1:4-5 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

John 12:46 I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.

1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. (In Christ’s light, we see light and, therefore, walk in the light!)

4. The Light Of Illumination - John 1:6-9 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Psalms 19:1-4 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. 2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,

Romans 1:19-22 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, (It is of no wonder that God said, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God!)

5. The Light Of Transfiguration - Matthew 17:1-2 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, 2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.

Psalms 104:1-2 Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. 2 Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain: (Our Lord Jesus Christ is now glorified and we shall be like Him for we shall see Him as He is!)

6. The Light Of Denunciation - John 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. (Denunciation of the old man and a turning from the old life.)

7. The Light Of Identification - 1 John 1:5-7 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Romans 6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. (We that are saved are now indentified with our Lord! I am His and He is mine! I am not ashamed of either the Lord or the gospel of Christ!)

8. The Light Of Glorification

1 Corinthians 15:53-54 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Revelation 21:23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

Revelation 22:5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.

The People That Walked In Darkness Have Seen A Great Light

Temple Baptist Church - 12-21-2008

Isaiah 9:1-2

Introduction:

A. The first stage of creation is found in the very first verse of the Bible, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” In the beginning stage of creation, the earth was without form and void; covered with darkness.

1. Creation was a progress by God’s sovereign design. God could have made all that is in that first instant but, through His sovereign will, chose to make a very distinct, clear progression in creation. He does all things well and perfectly.

2. Creation was no different. It began a “First Mention Principle of Bible Interpretation” concerning progressive revelation.

B. The second creation act that God performed was to create light in darkness. Not light out of darkness, but rather light in darkness. God did not make the darkness light. In that act of creation, God made both distinction and division in light and darkness.

1. He distinguished light from darkness. Darkness is a concealer of fact and detail. Nothing is revealed in darkness as darkness obscures what it envelopes. Darkness covers and hides. Light takes away darkness and is a revealer of both fact and detail.

2. He divided light from darkness. When light appears, darkness must then dissipate. Light removes darkness; therefore, they cannot co-exist in the same realm. It is either darkness or it is light. As light increases, darkness diminishes. It is progressive in nature according to the amount of light involved. Absence of light creates total darkness while presence of light diminishes darkness.

C. I said all of that in order to say this, “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light.” Not a small light, but a great light.

1. That light was also progressive in nature. From a babe born in an obscure manger to the very power of the presence of the Son of God before man as the Redeemer of the world living for sinners and dying for their sin.

2. Thus is the revelation of Jesus Christ to sinners. It is progressive in nature as men first learn of His name, become acquainted with His works, and are convinced of His love for them. I thank God that I—who once walked in darkness—have seen a Great Light and the Light of the World is Jesus.

D. I want to take a few moments this morning to show the revelation and progression of this enlightenment unto salvation.

1. There Is The Light Of Creation.

Psalms 19:1-6 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. 2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. 3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. 4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, 5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. 6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof

Romans 1:18-21 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Psalms 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good. (God has revealed Himself in all of this wonderous nature that we observe daily. Only a fool could see the vastness of the universe, the glories of this terrestrial earth, and deny the very presence and nature of our wonderful Lord! God is revealed in His nature to the natural man.)

2. There Is The Light Of Incarnation.

Galatians 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

1 John 1:1-2 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; 2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)

(God became man! Never a man spoke like this man! Never a man did such miracles as this man! He stilled the storms, raised the dead, fed the multitudes, healed the sick, commanded devils, comforted hearts, died for sin and gloriously resurrected! Never a man like the God-man, Christ Jesus! Our time is marked by His birth and there is no land, people, or culture where His name has not been.)

3. There Is The Light Of Revelation

Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

1 Corinthians 1:22-24 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

Colossians 1:4-6 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, 5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received [it] not [as] the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

(The Word of God reveals to us the Son of God in all of His glory! It is truly history! It is “His Story!” May faith came through the revelation of the light of God’s Word! If you ever are saved, it will be through belief of the truth revealed in this precious Bible!)

4. There Is The Light Of Illumination.

John 1:4-9 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (The Light of the world is Jesus! The Holy Spirit of God illuminated the darkness of my heart with the glorious light of the Gospel on day and, for the first time in my life, I saw both myself as I was and Jesus Christ as His is! The darkness of sin is gone and the glorious light of Jesus Christ shines in my heart and life.)

Conclusion: Why then do so many learn of Christ, see Him in His creation, and continue to live in sinful rejection of the Son of God who gave Himself for them?

John 3:19-21 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

Aren’t you glad that God dispelled your darkness one day and revealed Himself in light?