"The Light of the World"
Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound message found in John 8:12, from the New Living Translation.
Point 1: Jesus, the Light of the World
Scripture: John 8:12 (NLT) - "Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, 'I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness because you will have the light that leads to life.'"
Illustration:
- Imagine a world plunged into utter darkness, where people stumble and fall, unable to find their way. Then, suddenly, a brilliant light appears, illuminating the path before them. In the same way, Jesus declares Himself as the Light of the world, guiding us out of the darkness of sin and into the brilliance of God's truth and grace.
Point 2: The Darkness of Sin
Scripture: John 8:12 (NLT) - "...If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness..."
Illustration:
- Consider the depth of a pitch-black night, where fear and uncertainty often reign. Sin can cast a similar darkness over our lives, leaving us lost and afraid. Jesus, as the Light, dispels this darkness, providing a path to redemption and eternal life.
Point 3: The Light that Leads to Life
Scripture: John 8:12 (NLT) - "...because you will have the light that leads to life."
Illustration:
- Picture a weary traveler guided by the steady beam of a lighthouse, safely steering their ship away from treacherous rocks and into calm waters. Jesus, the Light, leads us away from the perils of sin and towards the abundant, eternal life found in Him.
Point 4: The Choice to Follow the Light
Scripture: John 8:12 (NLT) - "...If you follow me..."
Illustration:
- Imagine standing at a crossroads, one path shrouded in darkness and the other bathed in the gentle glow of the Light. Jesus invites us to make a choice, to follow Him out of darkness and into His loving embrace.
Conclusion:
In John 8:12, Jesus reveals Himself as the Light of the world, the One who rescues us from the darkness of sin and guides us to eternal life. As we stand at the crossroads of life, His invitation remains: "Follow me." Let us choose to walk in His light, for in Him, we find redemption, purpose, and the abundant life only He can offer.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, as the Light of the world. May His light shine brightly in our lives, dispelling the darkness of sin and guiding us to eternal life. Help us to choose to follow Him daily. In His name, we pray. Amen.
