João 8
F.B. Meyer · Citado em PreceptAustin
João 8
Meyer - John 8:31 If ye abide in my word. (R.V.) 1. We shall be approved as Christ’s disciples. — “Then are ye truly my disciples.” Of some the Master asks, “Why call ye Ale, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” And He drives these from Him, saying, “I never knew you.” His words are the supreme test — the fire which detects the ore; the winnowing-fan that finds out the wheat. Our treatment of our Lord’s words discriminates us: He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, is he that loveth Me. 2. We shall know the truth. — God teaches us differently from men. They deal in peradventures and surmises; He with certainties — “Ye shall know the truth.” They talk about the truth; He gives us the thing itself, and we know because we possess. They deal with circumstances and externals; He with the heart and root of matters. They give to the mind and soul; He to the spirit. We know the truth, because the Truth is in us, and we are in the Truth. “We know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we know Him that is true, and we are in Him that is true.” 3. We shall be free. — “The truth shall make you free.” Just as we are free from the terrors which belief in witchcraft and ghosts was wont to breed, because we know that the spirits of the dead do not haunt dark and dangerous places; just as we no longer fear the fatuous light over the marsh, or the death-tick, because science has attributed these to natural causes; so, as Jesus teaches us the truth about God, and the future, and the forgiveness of sins, and the broken power of Satan, and the impotence of death, we are delivered from the bondage of fear, and walk with God in perfect peace. A Glorious Liberator Sunday School Times John 8:31-59 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed;… I. FREEDOM PROFFERED. 1. Sin makes bondage (Jn 8:34; Matthew 6:24; Luke 16:13; Romans 6:16, 17; Galatians 4:25; 2 Peter 2:19). 2. Truth brings freedom (Jn 8:32; Romans 6:14, 18; Romans 7:6; Galatians 5:18; James 1:25; 1 Peter 2:16). 3. Christ gives freedom (Jn 8:36; Psalm 40:2; Psalm 118:5; Romans 6:23; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 7:22; Galatians 5:1). II. BONDAGE DEMONSTRATED. 1. By doing evil deeds (Jn 8:44; Genesis 3:13; Genesis 6:5; Matthew 13:38; Mark 7:23; Acts 13:10; 1 John 3:8). 2. By disbelieving the Lord (Jn 8:45; Isaiah 53:1; Luke 22:67; John 4:48; 5:58; 6:36; 8:24). 3. By not hearing truth (Jn 8:47; Isaiah 6:9; Matthew 13:15, Mark 4:9; John 3:12; John 5:47, 1 John 4:6). III. DEATH VANQUISHED. 1. A dying race (Jn 8:53; Genesis 3:19; Psalm 89:48; Ecclesiastes 12:5; Zechariah 1:5; Romans 5:12; Hebrews 9:27). 2. A life-giving obedience (Jn 8:51; Deuteronomy 11:27; Jeremiah 7:23; Acts 5:29; Romans 6:16; Hebrews 5:9; 1 Peter 1:22). 3. An ever-living Saviour (Jn 8:58; Psalm 90:1; John 1:1; John 17:5; Colossians 1:17; Hebrews 1:10; Revelation 1:18). James Smith - CHRIST’S HEART-SEARCHING “IF'S.” (ED NOTE: "IF" IS FOUND 12X IN JOHN 8 - Jn. 8:14; Jn. 8:16; Jn. 8:19; Jn. 8:31; Jn. 8:36; Jn. 8:39; Jn. 8:42; Jn. 8:46; Jn. 8:51; Jn. 8:52; Jn. 8:54; Jn. 8:55; JOHN 8:31–54 “Life is only bright when it proceedeth Towards a truer, deeper life above. Human love is sweetest when it leadeth To a more Divine and perfect love.” —A. Proctor. The word “so” in John 3:16 is a little one, but who has ever yet been able to sound the depth of its meaning? It is like some of our Lord’s “ifs” in this chapter, which are brimful of eternal significance. These are as hinges on which the life of the soul may swing in or out of fellowship with God. Let us examine them. There is— I. The “If” of Discipleship. “If ye continue in My Word, then are ye My disciples indeed” (Jn 8:31). True discipleship is the result of abiding in the truth, as revealed to us in Jesus Christ. Persecution is sure to arise because of this word, and many do get offended, and forsake it in theory or in practice (Matt. 13:20, 21). To continue not in His Word is to become false-witnesses, and so to forfeit our fellowship with Him, for the soul of Jesus Christ can have no pleasure in the man that draws back from the clear light of His Word (Heb. 10:38). Peter was a disciple indeed when he boldly preached the Christ whom he once denied. II. The “If” of Freedom. “If the Son therefore make you free, ye shall be free indeed” (Jn 8:36). The freedom which the Son of God gives is a freedom that can come from “none other Name under Heaven.” It is freedom from the curse of the law (Gal. 3:10); from the guilt of sin (Rom. 8:33); from the power of sin (Rom. 6:14); from the fear of death (Heb. 2:15); and the fear of man (Acts 4:18–20). It is the freedom of sons who have liberty of access into the Father’s presence. It is possible to use a freedom that does not belong to us, but whom the Son makes free are free indeed. III. The “If” of Service. “If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham” (Jn 8:39). “They which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham” (Gal. 3:7). The spiritual children of Abraham show their faith by their works, as he did. Abraham believed God, and his faith was evidenced by his works when he “went out not knowing whither he went,” and when he offered up his son Isaac. Those who are the true children of the “Father of the faithful” will do works worthy of their Father. Works of faith are the infallible proofs of a true spiritual descent. IV. The “If” of Sonship. “If God were your Father ye would love Me” (Jn 8:42). There is no way to the Father but by the Son (John 14:6). To know the Father, as He is revealed to us in the Son, surely implies that we will sincerely love the Son for so bringing us into such a gracious knowledge of the Father. To call God Father, and ignore the Son is to insult both Father and Son. The evidence of our sonship with God is love to His Son. If God is our Father in a true, practical sense, we will not only supremely love the Lord Jesus Christ, but we will also love every child of God, for “Every one that loveth Him that begat, loveth Him also that is begotten of Him” (1 John 5:1). V. The “If” of Responsibility. “If I say the truth, why do ye not believe Me” (Jn 8:46). He did speak the truth, and live it, for no one was able to “convince Him of sin.” He spoke the truth about Himself, about His Father, and about the needs and responsibilities of the people (vv. 12–24). They could not deny the truthfulness of His character, or the mercifulness of His mission, yet they did not believe in Him, they did not commit themselves to Him. “Why do ye not believe Me?” Who shall ever be able to justify themselves in their unbelief? Oh, the infinite madness of refusing to believe Him who is the living embodiment of the Eternal Truth! The “why” will have an awfully solemn ring about it, when the unbeliever meets Him at the judgment throne. VI. The “If” of Assurance. “If a man keep My Word he shall never see death” (Jn 8:51, R.V.). Eternal life and salvation is in that Word. To keep it is to keep in the antipodes of darkness and death. Death can have no power over that man whose life is hid with Christ in God. To keep His Word is to keep the message Christ brings, and to appropriate its offers to our own personal needs; it is to wrap ourselves in it as a garment, and to abide in it, and so keeping it, are kept by the power of God through faith. The promise is, “He shall never see death.” He shall not only “never die” (John 11:26), but never see death. Death is always a painful if not agonising sight. Of course, it does not mean the death of the body that we often see, but that awful death, the eternal penalty of sin and guilt (Rom. 6:23), for which we are thankful that we shall never see. If it is such a blessing not to see it, what a horror it must be to be in it. Beware of that faith which is a mere intellectual movement, which does not control the heart and life. C H
João 8:12
Meyer - THE UNERRING GUIDE.(The Everpresent Guide.) "The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; that they might go by day and by night." That cloud probably always hid within its folds a heart of fire; but only when night fell on the world was it apparent. Jesus has Become the Pillar of Cloud Fire. It was an emblem of the presence of God. In ancient warfare fire and smoke signals were used by the commanders to show that they were present. Similarly, whether moving majestically forward, or brooding over the Tabernacle in after days, Israel felt assured that the Lord of Hosts was with them, and that the God of Jacob was their refuge. Ages have passed since then. The glory has ceased from between the Seraphim, but Jesus fulfils for all the ages that sacred emblem. The cloud, His veiling flesh; the fire, His Godhead. "'The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the Only-Begotten of the Father"; and we welcome His Promise: "Lo, I am with you alway.'' (See Nehemiah 9:19; Matthew 28:20) We must not Precede our Guide. It was an Infallible Guide. The Book of Numbers makes very emphatic references to this, and tells us how absolutely the marches and halts of Israel were controlled. When it was taken up, they journeyed; when it settled down, they encamped. As long as it lay spread above the Tabernacle, there they stayed. No impatience, chafing at the long delay, could force the march. The camp might be pitched in a desolate place, far from Elim, and invaded by serpents, but there it must remain, whether for days or months, until the cloud gathered up its fleecy folds, and sailed magnificently forward. We have as our sufficient Guide neither pillar of cloud nor fire, but the Light of the World, who said, "He that followeth Me shall not walk in the darkness.'' (John 8:12) He guides us with His eye. Only let us not precede Him. There should always be a space between the guiding cloud and you, "about two thousand cubits by measure." And when He says by the intimation of the Spirit within, or His Providence without, "Let us go hence," let us be sure that neither the warmth of the camp-fire, nor the attractiveness of the site retain us. Oh, to be able to say with the Psalmist: "My soul followeth hard after Thee!" Pillar and Cloud--Sun and Shield. It was both Sun and Shield. When the excessive heat made it necessary for Israel to much at night, the light of the Fiery Pillar was enough to light the way: and when in the day the scorching glare of the sun was blinding, the cloud spread itself abroad like a great umbrella, so that the women and children could travel in comparative comfort. "The Lord God is a Sun and Shield. He will give grace and glory. No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly." Yes, and at times He will be a wall of defence, as when the cloud settled down between Israel and Pharaoh's hosts, so that the one came not near the other all the night. (Exodus 14:19–20) "God With Us." May the Lord Jesus be to each one of us a cloud and smoke by day and the shining of a flaming fire by night, and over all the glory may He spread His wings as a canopy, so that His Presence may be a pavilion for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a covert from storm and rain till we reach our Father's Home, and rest in Paradise for ever! (Isaiah 4:5–6) Tabletalk - THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD JOHN 8:12–30 “Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light life’ ” (v. 12). If there is anything that all people would agree upon about Jesus, it is that He is a person who always invited His friends and enemies alike to make up their minds about who He was. During His earthly ministry, some believed He was the great eschatological (endtimes/final) prophet (John 7:40). Others were convinced of His messianic office (v. 41a). Disagreements over His identity once almost led to Jesus’ arrest while He was celebrating the Feast of Booths (vv. 1–52), but He escaped because “His hour had not yet come” (vv. 30, 44). In this context, Jesus uttered His second “I AM” saying, declaring to the Pharisees: “I am the light of the world” (8:12). Scripture often uses the metaphors of light and darkness when speaking of the Creator. God and His glory are often described using light: “God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). In referring to Himself as the light of the world, Jesus was again speaking of His identity with the one and only God. Other passages in the Gospels tell us that Christ shares in the exact same light as God the Father: Jesus radiated the refulgent glory of God Almighty in the transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–13). Moreover, John 1 explains how the Word, who is God, is incarnate in the person of Jesus of Nazareth as the light who shines in the darkness (John 1:1–5). In the Bible, darkness often symbolically conveys the idea of spiritual blindness (Ps. 107:10–11; John 3:19). This makes Jesus’ reference to darkness in 8:12 significant, for it means that He alone illumines the way out of the darkness of sin and death. Such darkness cannot finally overcome the light of the glory of God in Christ Jesus (John 1:5), although many will refuse to see the light when it is made manifest before them. The Pharisees in John 8:12–20 rejected Christ’s testimony about Himself because it supposedly lacked the second witness required by the Mosaic law for confirmation. Jesus replied that His witness alone would be sufficient because of His heavenly origins and destiny as the exalted Lord of all. Still, there has always been more than the witness of Jesus’ testimony to His person and work. The Father who gave this law also witnesses to the truth of Jesus’ claims (Matt. 5:17–20; John 8:12–18). But many Pharisees missed this truth because they cared more about the Mosaic law’s minutiae than the One who is its end goal. X CORAM DEO Living before the face of God - Blindness to Jesus’ identity is not an intellectual problem but a moral one: “Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil” (John 3:19). We can show that Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God, but it takes a change in heart in the unbeliever to acquiesce to these truths. That is why we must pray for the Spirit to convert even as we are diligent to present and defend the gospel. February 22: The Light of the World Leviticus 12:1–13:59; John 8:12–30; Song of Solomon 6:11–13 “I am the light of the world! The one who follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). While some of Jesus’ “I am” statements confused the Jews, the “following the light” imagery would have been familiar. God had led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness with a pillar of fire so they could walk at night (Exod 13:21). They couldn’t deflect or misunderstand this claim. Jesus used this imagery to show the Jews that He offers clarity and meaning in a dark world. He offers life, grace, and spiritual awakening to those who are lost in the darkness. But the Pharisees couldn’t comprehend the light; they misinterpreted Jesus’ claims and fumbled around in the darkness and the details (John 8:19, 22, 25, 27). When we’ve elevated ourselves in the darkness, it’s hard to humble ourselves in the light. Even when we have inklings that tell us there is a better way, we don’t want to sacrifice our own pride. We prefer to be contrary and comfortable—to dwell on the details and exert our own opinions. But if we never call out the darkness, we’ll never experience the flooding of light. Are you calling out the darkness in and around you? REBECCA VAN NOORD Vance Havner - "Let Your Light so Shine" John 8:12 IN John 8:12 our Lord says, "I am the light of the world." He was "the true Light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world" (John 1:9). "I am come a light into the world," He declared in John 12:46. In the New Jerusalem, "the Lamb is the light thereof" (Rev. 21:23). In Matthew 5:14 Jesus says to His disciples, "Ye are the light of the world." "He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life," He tells us in John 8:12—and this light shines forth from our hearts, the Light of the Indwelling Christ, so that we shine as lights in the world (Phil. 2:15). The light is not generated within us by our own efforts; we are not the sources, but simply the instruments in and from which the Light shines. The Light is Christ living within because we have believed in Him and have been born again. Jesus went on to say, "A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." We are higher than the world, and nothing can hide the influence of a life that is in the will of God. Trouble and temptation and persecution only fan the flame. The life that is hid with Christ in God cannot be hidden in its outward influence for God. Our Lord then gives us further teaching about our light-bearing. He states the negative side first: "Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house." Indifference and worldliness, neglect of duty and any disobedience of the law of Christ—these are bushels that quench the Spirit and spoil our influence. Candles are meant for candlesticks. Our influence will take care of itself if we are in the candlestick of His will. Then Jesus gives us positive instruction: "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Mind you, He does not say "Shine your light" but "Let it shine." Some believers are much concerned about their influence. They strain and strive trying to make good impressions and labor that others may see how good they are. They are shining their light. But we need only to abide in Him, beware of all "bushels," and the light will shine of its own accord. We are to let our light shine before men. We are not to hide in a cave, but live His life right out in the world of things as they are. The real saint is no cloistered recluse, but one who can meet life's wear and tear through Christ. We are to let our light so shine before men that they may see our good works. Not just in order that they may see our good works and nothing more, to be sure, but they must see our good works if they are to be influenced. Men cannot see inside our hearts and tell what sort of faith we have; they can see only our works. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Eph. 2:10), and faith without works is dead (Jas. 2:20). The purpose of it all is that they may glorify not us, but our Father in heaven! "Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31). That is the secret of unselfish goodness: living solely that God may be glorified. It is easy to take pride in our own influence for Christ—but then He decreases and we increase. We must ever remember to be only the friend of the Bridegroom. (Reflections on the Gospels) Vance Havner - "The Light of the World" John 8:12-59 AFTER the touching incident of the woman taken in adultery John records our Lord's discourse on light and freedom (8:12-59). Our Lord declares Himself to be the light of the world. We who believe are also the light of the world (Matt. 5:14), but our light is the reflected light of Christ. In John's great passage, Jesus offers the double witness of Himself and the Father (verse 18). He tells the Pharisees they will die in their sins (verse 21) because they do not believe in Him (24). We are condemned already (John 3:18), we are under the wrath of God (John 3:36), and we shall die in our sins if we believe Him not. It is not drunkenness or immorality, but simple unbelief that sends men to hell. Again and again in this chapter (verses 24, 25, 28) Jesus makes the claim to be the Christ. The truly ideal life is described in verse 29: "And He that sent Me is with Me; the Father hath not left Me alone; for I do always those things that please Him." Companionship and conformity! But He follows this statement with "If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free," appending it in verse 36 with "If the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." Some had believed on account of His words in verse 29, but He made it clear that first contact must be followed by continuance. Looking into the law of liberty must be followed by continuing therein (Jas. 1:25). The Pharisees prided themselves upon their Abrahamic descent, but our Lord calls them children of the devil (verse 44). Advocates of the modern "fatherhood of God" idea would do well to ponder this verse. Here were Jews, men of God's favored race, claiming "one Father, even God" (verse 41), but our Lord speedily smashes that claim with His flaming response. Soft preaching today stands in need of revision according to John 8. Then follows a clear claim to sinlessness, which no mere man could dare to make (verse 46). Again He tells them they are not of God, and follows this with His staggering claim that those who keep His sayings shall never see death. The opposition grows more bitter with every exchange of words. They reply that even Abraham died—and yet He is claiming to be greater than Abraham. This leads to the climax when our Lord declares, "Before Abraham was, I am." Here is one of the most stupendous claims of the Christ in the four Gospels. Notice, He does not say, "Before Abraham was, I was." He links Himself with the Eternal "I Am That I Am" of the Old Testament. It is no wonder that the Pharisees tried to kill Him. Here were the religious people of that day—strict in observing the law, proud of Abraham and Moses—being told that they were children of the devil and that One stood among them greater than Abraham, living before Abraham, and that Abraham saw Christ's day by faith and was glad! One wonders what He would say today if He were among us with audible voice, for Pharisaism is still with us. Would not men who pride themselves upon the Fatherhood of God be called again the children of the devil? (Reflections on the Gospels) Tabletalk - The Light of the World JOHN 8:12–30 “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Many opinions about the person of Christ circulated during His public ministry. Some thought He was the great eschatological (end-times) prophet (John 7:40), while others thought He was indeed the Messiah (7:41). These opinions almost caused Jesus to be arrested because of the chaos they caused (7:41–43). But “no one laid hands on Him” because “His hour had not yet come” (7:30, 44). The second “I AM” saying of Jesus follows these events. Face-to-face with an adulteress and Pharisees, He declares, “I am the light of the world” (8:12). Light and darkness are important motifs found throughout Scripture. Light is often used to describe God and his glory. In his epistles, John tells us that “… God is light and in him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). Jesus, by calling Himself the light of the world, is once again making reference to His deity. Lest there should be any doubt about His claim, there are two other places in the gospels where it is clear that Jesus shares the exact same light as God the Father. The first of these is found at the Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–13) where Jesus radiates the refulgent glory of God from within. That Jesus shares the same light with His Father is also made clear in John 1. We are told that the Word is God (1:1) and that this Word who became incarnate in Christ Jesus is the Light shining in the darkness (1:4). Jesus’ reference to darkness in 8:12 is notable because the Bible often uses darkness as a metaphor for spiritual blindness (Ps. 107:10; John 3:19). Such blindness cannot subdue the glory of God in Jesus Christ because the darkness will never overcome the light (John 1:5). Though the darkness of sin will not finally obscure Christ’s glory, some men just will not see who Christ is. In John 8:13–20, the Pharisees rejected Christ’s testimony about Himself because they said it lacked the second witness required by the law in order to verify its truth. Jesus answered them saying that even if His witness were alone, it would be sufficient because He knows where He came from and where He is going. Jesus came to fulfill the law, and He told the Pharisees that there really are two witnesses, the Father and the Son. The Pharisees, however, missed this because they were concerned only with the details of the law and not the Person to whom the details of the law pointed. CORAM DEO When we read the Scriptures, it can be easy to become so consumed with the details and intricacies of its requirements that we forget that the whole Bible points to Christ. As you read and study the Bible, ask the Holy Spirit to help you see how all of the details point us to Jesus. Robert
João 8:12
Meyer - Our Daily Walk "I am the Light of the World: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."-- Jn 8:12. IT WAS the Feast of Tabernacles when our Lord uttered the words of our text, and it is supposed they were lighting the two great candelabra, which commemorated the fire-cloud that led the desert march. It was in direct allusion to the fiery pillar that our Lord used this metaphor. What that was to Israel, He is to His Church. The wilderness was a trackless waste to Israel. The people absolutely depended on the cloud to show their path, and to find a resting-place at night. When it gathered itself up from the Tabernacle on which it brooded, the people must strike their tents and follow. However desirable the site of their camp, they must leave it; however difficult the desert paths, they must traverse them; however uninviting the spot where it stopped, they must halt there, and remain as long as it tarried. To linger was to run the risk of wandering aimlessly in the desert till death supervened. Only where the cloud rested did the manna fall, the water flow, or the Divine protection avail. There are resting-times in our lives. God graciously arranges green pastures and quiet waters, and makes us to lie down. His voice sounds amid the turmoil of our existence, and bids us come aside and rest awhile. But often we fret against enforced rest, we persist in hurrying to and fro, and give way to bitter repining. When the cloud stays, remain where you are. When you do not know what to do, stop still until some indication points your path. There are times for action. The trumpet is heard with its summons, to which we must give immediate attention. When the sleeper refuses to arise instantly at the whir of the alarum, he soon becomes so accustomed to it that it does not disturb him. So we shall gain keenness of hearing when we accustom ourselves to instant obedience. The peace and usefulness of our earthly life will be in direct proportion to our appropriation of the Lord Jesus for all the demands of our pilgrim condition. Nay, more, for as in the train, the electric light comes on before the dark tunnel is entered, and lingers after it is passed, so the presence of Christ will precede and follow times of special need. "I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight" (Isa 42:16). PRAYER O send out Thy light and Thy truth, and let them lead me and bring me at last to my Father's house in peace. AMEN JESUS, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD- F B Meyer - Our Daily Walk "I am the Light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."-- Jn 8:12. THE STAR Sirius is so far away from our little earth, that its light, travelling at the rate of 186,000 miles per second, has to travel for eight long years before it can reach our eyes; and yet it is so bright that, when its ray shines down the telescope, the eye of the astronomer is dazzled as though by the sun. But if the light of a single created world is thus in the physical sphere, what shall we say of Him of whom we are told "God is Light, and in Him is no darkness at all?" Yet we may live and work in that search-light, and have fellowship with Him! Present-tense cleansing. Years ago in my congregation there was a sweep who was a friend of mine. On Sundays he sang in our choir, and his face shone with the love of God. But if I happened to call at his home close on his return from work, his face was begrimed as to be almost unrecognizable! Yet even then there was one part as clear and bright as on the Sunday! The pupils of his eyes set in pearly white! It seemed as though these were impervious to the soiling-touch of the smoke-dust. And why! Because Nature, which is the glove on the hand of God, has provided eyelids, eye-lashes, and above all, tear-water, so that whatever be our environment, the eye is kept washed and clean. Is not this an illustration of what the Apostle meant by the "Blood of Jesus Christ cleansing from all sin?" It is the same truth as our Lord taught, when, having washed the disciples' feet, He said that he who had bathed in the morning needed only to wash his feet. The ultimate purpose of the soul, therefore, should be to walk in the Light as He is in the Light. God covers Himself with light as with a garment. It is an emblem of purity and love and joy. And our life is meant to be like that, even when we are compelled to spend the hours of the day in the company of those who know not God, and perhaps blaspheme His Name. That Light may shine in heart and face, and fall on those around. That fellowship and communion with Him may be unbroken! The song of the Lord may rise in our hearts without a jarring note! It seems incredible and impossible, especially when one is conscious of so much sin and failure! Nay, it is not impossible, if once we have learnt the secret of this present tense---"the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth from all sin." PRAYER Fill me with Thy light and joy, O Lord, that I may have wherewith to give to my home and friends, and to the dark world around me. Keep me from hiding my light under the bushel of my own anxieties. AMEN. Obedience to the Light of Christ - Stephen Olford - BORROW - The Way of Holiness "If we walk in the light" (1:7). Though scholars differ on the interpretation here, all are agreed that light is God's self-revelation. In the final analysis, when we talk about obedience to the light of Christ, we are talking about following the Lord Jesus who said, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (John 8:12). Are you walking in the light? Is your obedience up to date? Have you obeyed every word that has come to you through the pulpit or in your own quiet time? The longest known revival in history took place in Rwanda and Uganda, Africa. When a Christian met another Christian and sensed his inner glow waning, the first question asked was, "Are you walking in the light, my brother?" But not only is there this obedience to the light of Christ, there must be Don't Fear the Light Four members of a family in Haiti cowered at home during the February 1998 solar eclipse and were found dead the next day by what officials said was accidental poisoning. Police say the four died of an overdose of sleeping pills taken to alleviate their anxiety. But suffocation was also suspected because the family had plugged all openings to their home to block out the sun. Thousands of Haitians hold the superstition that an eclipse will blind or kill them. As tragic and unnecessary as this event was how much more so is it tragic and unnecessary that millions of people are still afraid of the Light of Life, Jesus Christ. "In Him (Jesus) was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it." John 1:4-5 —Joel H. Sarrault. From the files of Leadership. See: John 1:4-5; Acts 26:18; 1 Peter 2:9. Transformed! Far away in the distant hills, North of India, a remote tribe who had never heard of Him were living in the deepest darkness of sin. Lawless head-hunters, in their mountain fastnesses they slew without mercy, their fiendish lust for killing not satisfied till they had decorated their huts with the heads of their fallen enemies. But into those utter depths of heathen darkness there came the Light—the Light of the Gospel of Christ, and everything was changed. Missionaries braved the terrors of the mountain fastnesses and the fierce enmity of the head-hunters. Taking their lives in their hands, they turned the Searchlight of God's Holy Word and God's truth upon the blackness of sin. Hearts were broken, sin confessed and put away—men who had loved to slay and kill came to the foot of the Cross for pardon and redemption from their sins. No longer "Head-hunters" there are today, thousands of men and women in these distant Lushai Hills, who, once walking in darkness, have seen the Great Light, they are following Him, and according to His promise they have the Light of Life. —Gospel Graphic LIGHT Police in an East Chicago neighborhood had to turn off a streetlight after a resident said she saw an image of Jesus in the shadow the light cast on a nearby tree. After the first reports, people flocked to the area in hopes of seeing the shadow, which could only be seen after dark, when the streetlight was illuminated. Police responded when the situation got out of hand the following Saturday evening. East Chicago police Chief Angelo Machuca called an emergency meeting early Sunday morning to recommend the city turn off the light in the interest of public safety. The mayor agreed, and extinguished the light to diffuse a crowd of more than 250 people who had gathered in the area. Machuca said neighbors had called to complain about blocked cars and visitors gathering around the light until 5AM. He said, "It came to the point where I had to ask for help from the (Lake County) Sheriff's Department." Though the visitors were well behaved, the local police did not have the manpower to maintain regular patrols and control the crowd. Police were also concerned about access for emergency vehicles because the street was so clogged with cars and people. Machuca said the light would remain off until authorities find a solution. East Chicago's Public Relations Director Damian Rico says the city respects all religious beliefs, but insisted public safety was their top priority. —Http://www.thetimesonline.com, Light won't shine at site of vision, July 11, 2005. Submitted by Jim Sandell. John 8:12 NASB "Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.'" Light of Life, Seraphic Fire Light of life, seraphic fire; Love divine, thyself impart; Every fainting soul inspire; Enter every drooping heart; Every mournful sinner cheer, Scatter all our guilty gloom; Father! in thy grace appear To thy human temples come. Come, in this accepted hour, Bring thy heavenly kingdom in; Fill us with thy glorious power, Rooting out seeds of sin: Nothing more can we require, We will covet nothing less; Be thou all our heart’s desire, All our joy, and all our peace. A B Simpson - The Light of Life Christ is the Light of life; not merely a teacher of truth in the abstract, but a practical and personal Guide. The light He gives is the light of life, that is, light that men can live by, shining on the path of duty, perplexity and trial, illuminating and cheering every step of Christian life. The essential condition is humble obedience. And the reason they could not understand it was because they were not willing to submit themselves to His will and direction. Charles Roll - The I Am of Indispensability 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 (John 8:12). Light is the finest figure of truth and is a word to which Christ made seven references in John 8. Light also stands to represent holiness and spiritual knowledge. Therefore, our Lord's claim to be the Light of the world means much more than the light in the physical universe which emanates from the sun. Christ is the "light of the world" (8:12); "the light of men" (1:4); "the light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world" (1:9); "the light of truth" (Psalm 43:2); "the light of the knowledge of the glory of God" (2 Corinthians 4:6); "a light to the Gentiles" (Isaiah 49:6). All suchlike features of Him are affirmed in the Scriptures. From the time Sir Isaac Newton discovered the spectrum and found that white light consisted of numerous colorful rays perfectly blended in one, the way was opened for an endless investigation to be made concerning the constituents of light, and what wonderful discoveries have since been made. Our blessed Lord was fully aware of all the rays that would be discovered; He is fully aware of all those that are still unknown to man; and with a perfect consciousness of every feature involved declared emphatically, "I Am the light of the world," and assured to all who would follow Him, the light of life. This not only includes an understanding of origins and destiny, but of the greatest knowledge of all, "the knowledge of God," for God is light. No clearer radiance ever shone, as this Gospel proves, to give the true import of the sacrificial lamb (1:29), the sacred temple (2:13-16), the serpent of brass (3:14-16), the Sychar well (4:5-15), the Savior of the world (4:42), the sheep gate (5:2-9), the sea of Galilee (6:1-27), the sustaining manna (6:31-51), the symbolic feast (7:37-39), the Siloam pool (9:4-7), the Shepherd of Israel (10:1-30), the sepulcher of death (11:35-44), and the secret source of life (15:1). These types were incorporated in Old Testament literature by One who had a perfect knowledge of what they typified. Christ is the Substance of all shadows, the Subject of all signs and the Sum total of light transparent and radiance translucent. What a clear light He throws upon the path of life by His unfaltering submission, His unfailing service, His unflagging strength, His unfainting supplication, and His unflinching sacrifice. The brilliance of His radiance has illumined the centuries, introducing the reality of personal Godhead, interpreting the Scriptures of truth, instructing the greatest saints, impelling the noblest service, and inspiring the sweetest songs. What ratification He has given of the veracity of prophecy by virtue of His words and works. With what solemnity He draped the relative sanctity of marriage and the personal responsibility of child care. How vividly the records of national history and regal personalities were flashed upon the screen by the lightrays of His teaching. The reality of eternity has dawned as clear as day by virtue of His disclosure of things to come. The revelation of Deity shone forth in brightest splendor by His unveiling of vital holiness and portrayal of the Father. The radiance of glory reached high noon in presence of the transfiguration of His victorious majesty. The rewards for loyalty in service glistened like costly gems of rare value when He described the divine recompense for devoted labor. The sacredness of marriage assumed new dignity in the light of this beloved Bridegroom. No one else has extended the range of man's reasoning powers, nor opened a wider field to his thinking capacity in breadth, length, depth, and height than Christ. What interesting insight He has given into the material things of the universe, what an intimate understanding of physical powers and their potentials He has opened to the mind, what important factors He has imparted to man's knowledge of moral standards, what information He has furnished concerning spiritual virtues and ethical values, and what infinite realities He has unveiled in relation to celestial conditions. John Piper -How Can We Be Sure of Light’s Triumph? (See full sermon Triumphant Light) John gives three reasons. 1. The Light Is the Life of the Son of God First, consider Jn 1:4: “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.” This means that the light that shines in the darkness is the light of LIFE (John 8:12). The life of the Son IS the light of the world. The first reason the light will triumph over the darkness is that it is life. It is living light. What does that mean? Well, if the life of the Son of God IS the light that shines in the darkness (which is what Jn 1:4 says), then there are at least four things we can say about this light. 1. First, the light of life has energy and power because the life of the Son has energy and power. 2. Second, the light of life has purpose and motion. It is not static like a lamppost or a lighthouse on the shore. It plans and moves. It shines now here, now there. It is alive with the life of the Son. 3. Third, the light of life grows and expands. That is the way the life of the Son of God is. His life is a fountain of life (Psalm 36:9). Once the rays start coming out of this light, they extend farther and farther and farther. 4. Fourth, the light of life begets offspring. John 12:36, “Believe in the light, that you may become sons of the light.” So the first reason the light shines in the darkness and the darkness does not overcome it is that this light is living—it has energy and purposefulness and growth and reproduction. It is not a static thing, like a stoplight that might be ignored. The light that shines in the world today is the very life of the Son of God. (See full sermon Triumphant Light) Brian Bell - Outline: Jesus Gives... The Light of LIFE The Light of LEADING (for exposition of this point see sermon) The Light of LIBERATION! (for exposition of this point see sermon) Background: the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. Timing: day after, final day of the feast. Setting: the Temple Treasury (located near the Court of the Women, so named because the woman could enter this part of the Temple). Backdrop: On the 1st evening of the feast there was a ceremony called The Illumination of the Temple. It took place in the Court of the Women...When the dark came...four great candelabra were lit and, it was said, they sent such a blaze of light throughout Jerusalem that every courtyard was lit up with their brilliance. William Barclay; Gospel of John; Vol.2, pg.11. 1. This magnificent light was a reminder of God’s pillar of fire that guided & protected Israel through the wilderness. 2. It is with this strong visual backdrop Jesus makes this next claim, vs.12. 3. Jesus desires to guide His followers: His words being a lamp to our feet & light to our path. His life being a lamp to our feet & light to our path. II. LIGHT OF THE WORLD! A. THE LIGHT OF LIFE! (Jn 8:12-20) B. (John 8:12) I am the Light of the world - The 2nd of the I Am statements. C. So the verbal sword fight between Jesus & the Pharisees begins. 1. Jesus starts the fencing match with vs.12. 2. Note: Jesus claims to be the light of the world not a light! 3. Though the claim is exclusive, the offer is inclusive - an offer any and all could respond to. D. As the Light of the world, Christ claimed to be God, for God is Light. 1. God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 1Jn.1:5 a) Darkness speaks of death, ignorance, & sin; Light speaks of life, knowledge, & holiness.1 E. Wait, how does “light” lead to “life”? 1. Because once you have the light, there is no more groping in darkness, but now you can see the right way to go! a) Example: Water caves in Belize. Only some had flashlights & could see the way. David Cooper - The Light of the World Text: John 8:12 G.K. Chesterton once said, "There is only one thing certain about man—that man is not what he was meant to be." The Bible says, "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Sin basically means "to miss the mark; to deviate from God's plan; to depart from God's will." The result of sin is a darkened world. We stagger in spiritual darkness without a sense of direction, lost in our way and frightened by our own spiritual condition. The Bible uses the analogy of darkness to describe the effects of sin and alienation from God (Proverbs 4:18, 19; John 3:19; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 4:18; 1 John 2:11). Hell itself is described as a place of outer darkness (Matthew 25:30). Most children are afraid of the dark. Most crimes are committed in the dark. Darkness itself can be a frightening experience. Myles Donnely, who escaped from the 78th floor of the South Tower in the 9/11 tragedy, said, "It sounds an awful thing for a grown man to say, but I think I am afraid of the dark again." In the midst of a world of darkness shines the light of Christ. The coming of Jesus into the world and into our lives is the entrance of light Light is a form of radiant energy consisting of electromagnetic waves of various lengths. The eye responds to these different wavelengths, converting them to colors. The human can distinguish 8 million colors. Light travels at the speed of 186,000 mps, which is 670,615,600 mph. It takes the light of the sun, which is 92,800,000 miles away, eight minutes to reach Earth. As incredible as it may seem, it takes the light of the closest star to Earth, Proxima Centauri, 4.25 years to reach Earth. We have learned to harness the light rays of radio waves, X-rays, ultraviolet and infrared waves to enrich our lives. Light controls evil by providing protection—crime lights, streetlights. Light directs a lost traveler, such as a lighthouse or, as we say, the light at the end of a tunnel. But the most important quality of light is its life-giving power. All green plants derive their growth from light and, in turn, provide food and oxygen for animals and mankind. The first act of Creation was the emergence of light (Genesis 1:1-4). Once light came, life followed. Light refers to the spiritual life. Jesus proclaimed, "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12; 9:5). What does that announcement mean to us? I. The Setting A. He made this announcement at the Feast of Tabernacles. This annual festival, which lasted for seven days every fall, commemorated the exodus of Israel from Egypt and the wilderness experience. B. Jesus made this statement while in the Temple area known as the Treasury, where people brought their gifts. The Treasury was part of a larger court known as the Court of Women. At the close of the first day of the festival, a dramatic ceremony took place in this court. Four great candelabra were prepared for lighting. When evening came the people flocked to the court for the candle-lighting ceremony. At dark, as four youths of priestly lineage were given the signal to light the candelabra, suddenly the darkness was dispelled. C. It is said that every street and court and square in Jerusalem was illuminated by the light. On one particular night, as the light illuminated the city, Jesus lifted His voice: "I am the light of the world!" II. The Significance What did the candelabra mean to the people? A. The light reminded them of the pillar of fire that guided and protected them in the desert. B. The light represented the Shekinah glory of God that appeared as a luminous, glowing, radiant mist in the Tabernacle, and later at the dedication of Solomon's temple. C. The light spoke of the coming of Messiah, of whom Isaiah said, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned" (9:2). Jesus was declaring Himself as Messiah when He said "I am the light." He was the One who would guide and protect His people. He is the glory of God revealed among us, who takes up His residence in our hearts and fills us with God's glory. And He will deliver us from the darkness of sin, guilt and fear. III. The Spirituality What does this mean to us spiritually? A. A light for the world. The word world, which is kosmos in Greek, speaks of both the earth (Psalm 24:1) and humanity in rebellion to God (1 John 2:15-17). Most important, it means the world in need of salvation. "God so loved the world" (John 3:16). B. A light to be followed. The call of Christ is "Follow me" (Matthew 4:19). To follow means to go the same direction, to be a close companion, to surrender our will to Him. We are to follow the Light of the World if we are to live with direction and purpose. If you were lost in the woods at night and had a flashlight, you would simply walk in the steps of path the light would make in front of you. The beam of light would form a path of light for you to follow in the darkness. We don't need to fear the darkness of this world or get lost in it. All we need to do is follow Christ, the Light of life. C. A light to be experienced. Jesus is "the light of life" (John 8:12). When Paul met Christ on the road to Damascus, he was blinded by the brilliant light in his vision of Christ. Light had shone into his life, and the darkness was gone. At the end of World War II, King George VI delivered an address to the British Commonwealth on Christmas Eve in a palace in London. He challenged Britain's leaders to faith: "I said to the man at the Gate of the Year, 'Give me a light that I may walk safely into the unknown.' He said to me, 'Go out into the darkness, and put your hand in the hand of God, and it shall be to you better than the light, and safer than the known.'" At the time he spoke these words, his listeners knew he was dying of cancer. There was an anchor to his own soul in the time of need (Ravi Zacharias, Can Man Live Without God?, p. 53). Closing: He is the Light of the World! Sermon by Brian Bill - John 8:12-30 The Light Of The World February 13-14, 2016 [Bring up flashlights, candles, nightlight, lantern, spotlight, construction lights, etc.] This little nightlight is not very bright but it gives just enough light to dispel the darkness in the middle of the night. On the other extreme, some spotlights claim to be one million times brighter than a single candle. Their light is so bright that they come with a warning to not look directly into the beam. As we continue in our sermon series, “Metaphors of the Messiah,” we’re focusing this weekend on the second “I Am” statement of Jesus: “I am the Light of the World.” Several people told me last week’s sermon was excruciating to sit through because of the smell of fresh bread filling the room. We’ve been learning that whenever we come face-to-face with Jesus, an agonizing decision has to be made. When Jesus disrupts, some will desert Him and others will declare their allegiance to Him. In each of these magnificent metaphors, the phrase “I Am” hearkens back to when God appeared to Moses in the burning bush. When Moses saw the “flames of fire,” he wanted to get a closer look but was told to remove his sandals because God’s presence had made the ground holy. After Moses is informed that he will lead God’s people out of Egypt, he wants to know what to say when people ask about God’s name. God answers in Exodus 3:14: “I AM WHO I AM.” “I Am” is God’s covenantal name. This title was so sacred that it was only uttered by the high priest, and then only once a year on the Day of Atonement. It literally means, “I am who I am,” and signals the truth that nothing else defines who God is but God Himself. Every time Jesus uses one of the “I AM” metaphors, He is emphatically stating that He is Yahweh. This is a staggering statement of His sovereign supremacy. Just as the bush burned brightly and cast light all around, so too, Jesus is the light of the world, and a consuming fire that should stop us in our tracks because we are on holy ground. When Jesus used the phrase, “I AM” He did so on purpose and those who heard Him did not miss the obvious connection He was making. This riles up the Pharisees and they interrupt Jesus ten times in John 8 alone. They take umbrage at His outrageous utterances and ask Jesus a pointed question in verse 53: “Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you make yourself out to be?” Jesus pushes them further than they were intending to go when he declares in verse 56: “Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad.” They don’t know how to respond to this scandalous statement so they turn to sarcasm in verse 57: “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” They’re probably chuckling to themselves at the absurdity of this statement and then they’re bowled over because Jesus isn’t finished yet. Look at verse 58: “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.” Verse 59 tells us that they picked up stones to slay him, but Jesus slipped away. Light Background Please turn now to John 8:12: “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” Jesus is not saying that He is holding the light, or that He has the light, or that He’s the way to the light. [Hold up various lights] Instead, He is unequivocally stating, “He is the light.” As we go through these Messiah Metaphors, it’s important to understand some background information. Let’s begin by looking at the properties of light. 1. Light reveals. Light enables us to see things that were there all along but because of the darkness we could not see them [Use flashlight to reveal the ugly scar on my face]. Darkness conceals and light reveals. Without light we can’t see anything. It was C.S. Lewis who said, “I believe in Christ like I believe in the sun. Not only because I see it, but because by it all things are seen.” Ephesians 5:13: “But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.” By the way, that’s why some people avoid coming to church. They really don’t want Christ to shine His light on the way they’ve been living. 2. Light gives life. Light is necessary for life itself. It sets our biological clocks, triggers in our brains the sensations of color, and supplies the energy for things to grow. Have you heard of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)? Winter is a tough time because the sun often disappears and depression can set in. I have an extended family member who deals with this. Interestingly, only about 1% of Floridians have SAD, while 10% of Alaskans struggle with it. I’m told that one of the best treatments is using bright light therapy [turn on lantern]. In John 1:4 we read this about Jesus: “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.” While some of us struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder, all of us have Sin Affective Disorder, which is indeed SAD, but we should be GLAD because the light of Jesus frees us from our sins. 3. Light scatters darkness. In Scripture, darkness is often a metaphor for sin, spiritual blindness, and death. John 1:5: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” 4. Light gives warmth. Did you know that one small candle, properly reflected, will raise the temperature of an igloo from below freezing to over 45 degrees? [Show construction lights and explain the heat they generate] In the Bible, warmth is often equated with the comfort of God. Ecclesiastes 11:7: “Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun.” 5. Light provides guidance. It’s difficult to walk in the dark, isn’t it? Light can help us see where we’re headed. Psalm 43:3: “Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me.” Light in Scripture Let’s look now at how light is portrayed in Scripture. Those who heard Jesus declare that He is the light of the world would have had these passages running through their minds. • Genesis 1:3-4: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness.” The first thing God created was light in order to dispel darkness. • After God appeared to Moses and revealed His name as the “I AM,” He did an amazing thing. He turned the lights out on the Egyptians, literally. Exodus 10:21-23: “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, a darkness to be felt.’ So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was pitch darkness in all the land of Egypt three days…but all the people of Israel had light where they lived.” • After illuminating the Israelites with an unforgettable display of luminary brightness, God then promised to lead His people for forty years with bright light at night and a smoky cloud during the day. They never had to be afraid of the dark because the Shekinah fire of God’s holy presence was always with them. They didn’t need any night-lights [hold up] because the lights were always on! Check out Exodus 13:21: “And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night.” His listeners would be shocked to realize that Jesus was equating Himself with the pillar of holy fire. • One of the names of the coming Messiah was “light.” We see this in Daniel 2:22: “He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him.” • God Himself is referred to as light in 1 John 1:5: “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” When Jesus declares Himself to be the light of the world, He is declaring His deity. • God’s first act was to create light and His final crescendo will be splashed with light as His work of redemption culminates. Revelation 21:23-24: “And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it.” Revelation 22:5: “And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.” Now let’s see the context in which Jesus made this startling claim. 1. Light in the Gospel of John. The word “light” is used 24 times in John’s gospel. In the prologue, we read in John 1:9: “The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.” 2. Wilderness Metaphors. As we learned last week, when Jesus declared Himself to be the bread of life in John 6, the people remembered the manna that was supplied for 40 years. In John 7, Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles. Part of this celebration involved the pouring of water onto the ground, commemorating the water that came out of the rock in Numbers 17. While people are watching the water splash on the stones in the Temple, Jesus stood up and said in a loud voice in John 7:37: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.’” And, now in chapter 8, Jesus asserts that He is the light of the world, hearkening back to the pillar of fire that led God’s people in the desert. Jesus deliberately associated Himself with these three wilderness images in three consecutive chapters in order to establish His identity. He is the bread of life, the water of life, and the light of life. Feast of Tabernacles In order to fully grasp the impact of Jesus’ statement, we need to understand the Feast of Tabernacles. God inaugurated this annual feast to help the Israelites remember that for 4 decades they wandered in the wilderness before they were finally brought into the Promised Land (see Leviticus 23:40-43). There were two distinctives about this celebration that made it different from all their other annual feasts. 1. For 7 days the entire nation camped out in booths or tents made of branches and foliage to remind them of the hardships their ancestors had endured in the wilderness. 2. On the opening night of the celebration, four gigantic candelabras standing 75 feet high were lit, gloriously illuminating the entire Temple and much of Jerusalem (this is not to be confused with the ever-burning lampstand or menorah that was in the tabernacle according to Exodus 25). Each candelabra for the Feast of Tabernacles had four branches supplied by golden bowls filled with 10 gallons of oil. These flames lept toward the sky. Throughout the week the light burned brightly as the religious leaders praised the Lord and sang songs of joy while the people watched and waited. Musicians played harps, lyres, cymbals and trumpets. This festival was to remind the Israelites of the glory of God, dwelling among them and how God’s Shekinah brightness had once filled the Temple. This celebration also focused on the promise of God to send a light, the Anointed One, the Messiah, who would deliver them from darkness and despair. Sacrifices were offered and Scriptures like Isaiah 9:2 were read: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” The exquisite imagery of this celebration culminates on the final day of the feast as Jesus declares: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” We know that Jesus makes this statement on the last day from John 7:37. What’s amazing about His timing is that as the celebration wraps up, all the lights are extinguished. The reason that all the lights are put out is that in their minds, God has not yet sent the Savior. The Temple has grown dark. The tents are torn down. And then Jesus stands up next to the magnificent Menorahs and declares that He is the Messiah! One more point. John 1:14 says, “…the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” Jesus “tabernacled” among us, which is exactly what they were celebrating in the feast of booths. Application We started broadly so that we could narrow in and understand the meaning of this metaphor. Keeping in mind the properties of light, the Scriptural survey, the context, and the background to the Feast of Tabernacles, let’s now apply this verse to our lives. Here are some truths that come to light (no pun intended). Look again at John 8:12: “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” 1. Repetition. The first thing to notice is that “Again Jesus spoke” to the people. Aren’t you thankful that God doesn’t just give us one chance? He spoke to both the sexual sinner and the lost legalist in the same chapter and is ready to do it again and again and again. Jesus loves to give us chances. I had to hear the gospel many times before I responded. But we don’t have unlimited opportunities. At some point it will be too late for you. Twice in this chapter, in Jn 8:21 and in Jn 8:24, Jesus tells the Pharisees that they “will die in their sins.” I can’t think of anything more tragic than that. It’s no accident that you’re here today. This could be your last chance to put your faith in Christ. 2. Revelation. Perhaps you’re not sure if Jesus is really who He says He is. Friend, I don’t know what else you could be waiting for. What more evidence do you need? When Jesus said, “I am the light,” He is claiming to be both God and Savior. He has perfectly fulfilled the prophecy found in Isaiah 42:6-7: “I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.” 3. Redemption. Notice what comes next, “…I am the light of the world. Whoever…” Jesus came for the whole world. Interestingly, the word “world” occurs only 15 times in the first three gospels and 77 times alone in the Gospel of John! We must never lose sight of the importance of taking the gospel to the nations. I love that phrase, “whoever.” Anyone can come to Him. He died for the sins of everyone. No matter what you’ve done, you can be forgiven. John 12:46: “I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” At the end of the service next weekend we’re going to participate in a “global hymn sing” with thousands of churches around the world. Keith and Kristyn Getty have reintroduced a song called, “Facing a Task Unfinished” to shine the spotlight on the importance of taking the gospel to the nations. Pastor Chad and I will be talking about this on Moody Radio this Wednesday morning. I posted the song on the EBC Facebook page and have also included a link on the Sermon Extras tab on our website so you can learn it this week. Friend, do you need to be forgiven? Don’t run away from the light! Come to the light and be forgiven. Colossians 1:13-14: “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” 4. Response. Salvation is not automatic. It doesn’t work by osmosis just because you’re in church today. It’s for whoever “follows.” To follow the Lord Jesus means to believe and receive or literally, “to follow together along a way.” Have you done that yet? John 1:5 says that by nature we try to extinguish the light because it hurts our eyes. The problem with that is we will then stumble around in the darkness of our sins. The only way to have light is to follow the light. This past Monday night I was invited by Edgewood member Nels Lindell to speak to the brand new Fellowship of Christian Athletes group at Blackhawk College. Incidentally, I’ve also spoken to another Christian group on campus called, “The Conversation.” Seven guys from the baseball team came and three of them responded and decided to follow Christ! Some of them are in our services this weekend. Here’s a picture. The whole reason this group got off the ground is because of the prayers of Nels. These groups are shining the light of Christ in a dark place. This gave me a renewed vision for the impact Edgewood can have on college campuses around the Quad Cities. God is doing some great things in our Ignite Singles Ministry. Last Sunday I attended their class and was really impressed with Robert Sanders’ teaching and the large group discussion that focused on application. Things are also going well in our student ministry under the leadership of Chris and Jamie Rogers – over 50 students came to the Super Bowl party! I can’t wait to onboard our Youth and Young Adults Pastor to bring even more focus and leadership so that we can reach more students and singles. Our search consultant will be presenting a list of candidates to the Deacons and Pastoral team this Thursday night. 5. Result. Once you respond and decide to follow Christ you “…will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” This literally reads, “He shall surely not walk in darkness.” Darkness is a metphor for disaster, death and destruction, along with sin and its consequences. Do you see the word “have”? We don’t just get to see the light, we can have the light. You can live in the light or despair in the dark. John 12:35: “So Jesus said to them, ‘The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going.’” A boy once heard his Sunday School teacher say that Jesus was the light of the world. After class, he went up to his teacher and said, “If Jesus really is the light of the world, I wish He’d come hang out in my house. It’s awfully dark where I live.” Is it dark where you live? You can change that by embracing the light of life. 6. Repent. Have you been slipping spiritually? Have you been defaulting to the dark instead of living in the light? If so, it’s time to turn the lights on. Listen to Ephesians 5:8: “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of the light.” 7. Reflect. One of our purposes as His followers is to shine His light in a dark world. Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Someone put it like this: “I’d rather light a candle than curse the darkness.” Last Sunday after the service an Edgewood member was so pumped about what he learned about Jesus being the bread of life that he told his parents all about it. He then went and told a neighbor. On Monday he shared with one of his employees. He’s living out our value of going with the gospel – to his family, his neighbors and to his workplace. How about you? I heard another amazing story this week. Kendall, a first-grader, got saved in November, and has been reading Anchor for the Soul. She can’t put it down (By the way, we’ve given away around 4,000 of these gospel books and are getting ready to publish it in Spanish – several EBC members are reading the manuscript right now to check for errors). Recently Kendall asked her mom (Kara Fitch) if she could bring the book to school so she could read it on the bus. When she started reading it, one of her friends became curious and so they started reading it together. A few days later, another friend became interested and started reading it with the other two. One day both of these girls said to Kendall, “We want to know how to have Jesus in our lives.” So this little 7-year-old told them. They both prayed right there on the bus and asked Jesus to save them! She came home and told her mom, “They asked me how to get to heaven. I told them and they did it.” Kendall and her sister Kailey are following Christ and will be baptized soon. Their parents, Tim and Kara Fitch, are living on mission and equipping their daughters to shine the light of Jesus in our dark world. If you’re stirred by this and want to do a better job of letting your light shine, here are some growing and going ideas. 1. If you’re a mom, consider going to the Hearts at Home conference in Peoria April 22-23. 2. If you’re single and looking to connect with others, there’s a bowling and laser tag night at the QC Entertainment Center this Saturday night. 3. If you’re divorced, check out Divorce Care on Wednesday nights. 4. If you’re in high school and want to learn how to let your light shine on your campus, block out April 8-9 for Dare to Share in Chicago. 5. Participate in our shoe drive for gypsy children in Romania. 6. There’s an event this Saturday focusing on biblical womanhood. 7. And I want to challenge every man at Edgewood to attend the Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference on Saturday, April 16th at Harvest. I’m hoping for 100 men to go! Guys, we need to step it up. Former NFL quarterback Jeff Kemp and Moody grad Mark Jobe whose church in Chicago has over 20 locations, will be speaking. 1 Peter 2:9: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” Growing and Going Let’s milk this metaphor a little more as we look at some things that could be keeping us from fully shining for Christ. 1. Stop covering your light [put a box over lit lantern]. Are you doing something that is snuffing out the light of Christ in your life? Matthew 5:15-16: “Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” The whole purpose of shining our light is to give glory to God. This past Tuesday night I had the joy of presenting a check to Pregnancy Resources in the amount of $51,555 for the Mobile Ultrasound Van. Thanks for living out your light as you gave so generously. The people at the training even stood up and applauded. I simply pointed to heaven and said, “All glory to God.” 2. Make sure you’re plugged in [try to turn lamp on that is not plugged in]. Some of you are not shining simply because you’ve unplugged from your power source. You can’t grow if you’re not plugged into God. In addition, one of our core values is to gather with God’s people. Hebrews 10:25: “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” 3. Get recharged daily [hold up dim flashlight]. Is your light growing dim? The only way to burn bright is by getting recharged and rejuvenated by daily time in the Word of God. Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” 4. Use these metaphors to help you remember. Whenever you eat bread or see bread or smell bread, ask yourself this question: “Am I finding my satisfaction by feeding on Christ?” And when you see the light of the sun (be patient; it’s coming) or when you turn on a light, ask this question: “Am I plugged in to Christ and am I shining for Him today?” We’re going to turn off some of the lights and ask you to come forward if you are ready to follow Jesus Christ. Have you asked Christ to be your forgiver and leader? Are you a believer but you’ve been doing some things in the dark? It’s time to bring it into the light. Closing Song: “The Great Light of the World.” Sometimes at night am afraid I cover my eyes, Cover my shame So here in the dark Broken apart Come with your light George Brooks - “I Am The Light Of The World” John 8:12 “Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life”” (NASB). When the various necessities of life are considered, one absolute necessity for both plants and animals is light. Light is important because it has within it life and energy. Light and life cannot be separated. Light is an excellent symbol of whom Jesus is and what he came into the world to do. When Jesus came into the world, the world was filled with the darkness of sin and the darkness of ignorance of God. Jesus came into the world as the Sun of Righteousness (Malachi 4:2). He also came into the world to give a clear explanation of God’s character and conduct. I. The Problem. The words of Jesus in this text are much more significant than they appear at first glance. To gain some significance from this passage, we need to focus on the things surrounding these words. First, in John 8:1-11 a man and a woman are seen walking in moral darkness. They were caught in the act of adultery. Some Pharisees caught these two persons walking in their moral darkness but they only brought the woman to Jesus that he might condemn her for her moral darkness. But rather than Jesus condemning the woman for walking in moral darkness, he condemned her accusers. He did so by telling the one who was among them without sin to throw the first stone at the woman. After the accusing Pharisees left, Jesus said to those who were assembled in the temple, “I am the light of the world.” This meant that he was the Source of light for those who walked in moral darkness. There were some others who walked in darkness in this narrative. The Pharisees walked in spiritual darkness. They heard Jesus say “I am the light of the world.” Jesus came into the world to give a visible explanation and evaluation of God. But the Pharisees believed the words of Jesus were false because he bore witness of himself (8:13). According to Jewish teachings, there needed to be two witnesses for a statement to be considered true. But despite the teachings and beliefs of the Pharisees, it did not alter the fact that Jesus is the light for those in spiritual darkness. There was also a man who appears in the ninth chapter of John who was born physically blind. Jesus healed this man to prove his power as the light of the world. He did this to create belief in himself. It would have been of little value to the world for Jesus to be the light of the world and no one believes him to be what he said. II. The Proclamation. “I am the light of the world.” Jesus is the light that will never go out. He forever shines that he might lead sinners out of the darkness of death and into the light of life. He is the unique light because there has never been and will never be another just like him. Jesus is God’s monogenes. This means that Jesus is the only one of his kind. He is God’s only begotten Son. Other prophets and religious leaders have claimed to be equal or superior to Jesus. But Jesus put himself in a class all by himself. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Others have been called lights, but Jesus is the light. Light is a symbol of purity and holiness. The Apostle John said about God, “God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5, NASB). God, through Jesus Christ, is absolute purity and holiness personified. Because Jesus is light, he could live among men of sin and not become contaminated. Light remains pure because of its nature. The purity of Jesus was not because of the absence of sin, it was because of his supreme excellence. Jesus is the inexhaustible light. John said, “...The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it” (John 1:5, NASB). The word “comprehend” is a word that literally means to overpower or extinguish. III. The Proposal. “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me...” Jesus did not come into the world to light up a small corner. He is the universal light. But the proposal here is also made individual. Jesus gives light to the world collectively. But he offers light to us individually. Jesus said, “He who comes to Me.” John said concerning Jesus, “There was the true light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man” (John 1:9, NASB). We need to know that Jesus does not force himself on anyone. We always have two options. We can accept Jesus or we can reject him. Since the world is in a state of spiritual and moral darkness, there is a need for Jesus, the light. Jesus is not for a few people only, he is for all people. He shines for the good of all. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life” (NASB). It is true that all people do not accept Jesus as the light of the world, but he is still the light of the world whether we allow him to shine on us or not. IV. The Promise. “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life.” To follow a leader, the follower must have trust and confidence in the leader. All who follow Jesus are assured that they will not walk in darkness, but they shall have the light of life. As the light of the world, Jesus brings God near man, and makes God real to man. He makes God personal and living. Jesus said, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9, NASB). The Apostle John said, “No man has seen God at any time; the only begotten God, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him” (John 1:18, NASB). Light is useful because it is a symbol of joy. Light is useful because it contributes to safety. Light is useful because it gives guidance. Light is useful because it dispels darkness and darkness is a source of fear. David said, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the defense of my life; whom shall I dread” (Psalm 27:1, NASB). He That Followeth Me Shall Not Walk in Darkness John 8:12 - Burris Butler - Sermon Outlines on Christian Living Introduction A. These words of Jesus were spoken as ceremonial lamps were being trimmed and as the sun came over the Mount of Olives: “I am the light of the world.” B. “Let there be light.” I. Light Has Many Important Qualities A. Light reveals what was hidden. 1. Paul speaks of the “mystery” of the gospel. 2. Examine John 14:9. B. Light shows things in their true perspective. 1. Things in the dark appear to have strange and hideous shapes. 2. Light takes away the terror by showing things as they are C. Light cleanses. D. Light heals. (Malachi 4:2) E. Light guides. (Psalm 119:105) F. Light is the source of life itself. II. Our Simple Duty Is to Follow Jesus A. The New Testament furnishes us with examples. 1. Jesus called Simon and Andrew: “Follow me” (Matthew 4:19). 2. Jesus called James and John and they “followed him” (Matthew 4:22). 3. Levi left the receipt of custom upon hearing Jesus’ words: “Follow me” (Mark 2:14). 4. Jesus extends the invitation to all men: “Follow me” (Matthew 16:24). B. We are to follow: His example; His teaching; His commandments; His leading. C. We follow all, and all the way, if we would be saved. III. To Follow Jesus Is to Walk in the Light 1 John 1:5–2:10—Antithesis. A. “If we walk in the light … the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.” “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” B. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive.” “If we say that we have not sinned, we make him [God] a liar.” C. “And hereby we do that we know him, if we keep his commandments.” “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar.” D. “He that loveth his brother abideth in the light.” “He that hateth his brother, is in darkness.” IV. We Can Respond to the Light in Various Ways A. We can follow its leading. B. We can walk away from it. C. We can close our eyes to it. D. We can become blind. Conclusion A. In a real sense as we walk in the light, we become the “light of the world.” 1. Christ is light; we are reflection. 2. He is effulgence; we are refulgence. B. The world is in darkness. C. The world’s only hope is in Jesus, the light of the world, and in those who walk in the light John Butler - Divine Power John 8:12 - Sermon Starters Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world, he that followeth me shall not walk after darkness, but shall have the light of life" (John 8:12). This is one of the great verses in the Bible. In it we learn of Divine power which in spite of all that man does will overcome all evil and God's will will be done anyway. Note three wonderful truths from this text. FIRST—THE IMPREGNABLE WORD OF GOD "Then." This one word is so encouraging. The enemy of Christ and of God had tried with all their might in their clever scheming to silence Christ. But when the dust clouds of all the opposition has cleared, Christ is still standing and speaking. It reminds us of Acts 12 which begins with Peter in prison, put there by Herod in an attempt to stop the Word of God, but an angel got Peter out of prison. Later Herod gave a speech and was acclaimed a god but before the chapter ends he is eaten with worms and "The word of God grew and multiplied" (Acts 12:24). You cannot silence the Word of God. It is impregnable, unconquerable, eternal. SECOND—THE IMMEASURABLE GRACE OF GOD "Again" Though His ministry was rejected time and again, Christ spoke "again" to the people and gave them another opportunity to turn to Him and be saved. Sin may be great but grace is greater. "Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound" (Romans 5:20). We cannot measure the greatness of grace. Thank God for the grace that gave us more opportunity to be saved even though we had rejected Him. THIRD—THE INCOMPARABLE SON OF GOD "I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." Three wonderful truths are stated about Christ here. The Deity of Christ. "I am." These two words are an abbreviation of the name of God given to Israel back in Exodus 3:14—"I am that I am." It says Jesus is God. The diadem of Christ. "Light." This word declares the Messiahship of Jesus Christ. The prophet Isaiah spoke prophetically of the Messiah when he said, "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light, they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined" (Isaiah 9:2). The world sits in darkness, but when Christ comes back to reign and rule as Israel's Messiah, He will turn the lights on. The deliverance in Christ. "He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness but shall have have the light of life." Darkness promotes death. Light gives life. Life dies in the dark. If you want things to have life and grow, they must have light. Sin brings great darkness to man. (Ephesians 5:8). Christ overcomes the darkness with His light of life (II Corinthians 4:6). F B Meyer - THE LIGHT OF LIFE "I am the Light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."--John 8:12. ON EITHER side of the temple court stood a huge golden candelabra. On the first and on each succeeding night of the week of the Feast of Tabernacles, these were lit, and became two immense globes of flame, pouring a brilliant flood of light over temple and city and the deep shadows of Olivet. And it was probably to these that our Lord alluded, when He spoke of Himself as the Light of the world. Of course it would be quite legitimate to compare Him to the glorious orb of day, "of this great universe the eye and soul." What the sun is to the world of nature, Jesus is in the world of the invisible and spiritual. By Him all things consist in harmonious rhythm and order. From Him come all tides of life and beauty, which go to make us truly blessed. And his influence is exerted so noiselessly and quietly, that we can only compare it to those waves of transparent beauty, which break in their untainted loveliness on the world around; but no ear catches the music of their ripple or the throb of their tides. However, it will be better to turn away from this seductive comparison, in order to apprehend exactly what was in his heart when He said, "I am the Light of the world." The Feast of Tabernacles commemorated the march of the pilgrim hosts through the desert, fed by manna for their food; supplied with water from the smitten rock for their thirst; guided by a pillar of cloud which had at its heart a torch of fire, though this was only apparent when night had veiled the glaring light of the sun, and it brooded tranquilly over the camp. Our Lord compared Himself to the first of these symbols in the sixth chapter; to the second in the seventh: and to the third in this. He declares that to all the pilgrim hosts of men, He is what the cloud with its heart of fire was to that race of desert wanderers. Let us form a clear conception of that wondrous symbol, which God took not away from his people; the pillar of cloud, in which He went before them by day to lead them in the way, and the pillar of fire to give them light, to go by day and night (Exod. 13:21; Num. 9:15-23). I. AS TO ITS NATURE. In appearance it was probably like one of those white cumulus clouds which sail majestically and slowly through the blue of a summer sky; like some aerial snow mountain, which is to the heavens what the iceberg is to the seas. We have seen such in the process of being manufactured from the mists that lie low at morning in Alpine valleys; and at night we have watched them as they came to anchor, or were stranded on some rocky peak. The one point of difference lay in the Shekinah fire that shone in the heart of the pillar of cloud. It was always there, though only visible when daylight was gone. But that fire in the heart of the cloud was prophetic of our Lord's Deity, enfolded and enshrined in his humanity. The Word was made flesh and tabernacled among men, who knew not what He was, save when on the night of the Transfiguration the glory that dwelt in Him became evident, bathing his form in waves of light and fire. And it was his consciousness of this marvellous union of the Divine and human elements, though the Divine was so carefully and constantly veiled from ordinary eyes, that enabled our Lord to speak of Himself as the source of spiritual illumination to all the inhabitants of this million-peopled world. There was no egotism, or serf-assumption in his claim. It was the literal truth. He bare record of Himself, because He could say nothing less; and He knew whence He came and whither He went. And there is a consistency between his claims and his powers which has stopped the mouth of objectors and critics. Though this assertion has stood upon the page of Scripture for eighteen hundred years, in a world quick to detect conceit and expose its hollow pretensions; yet no infidel has ever thought of assailing Him in this, which is the weakest and absurdest assertion ever made, if it be not the deepest, truest, and most sacred. Is there not a secret conviction in the heart of men that Jesus is well able to be this which He professes to be? Does not his universal influence--which is confined to no one type of man, but touches equally European and Asiatic, the shivering Esqui-maux, and the enervated South Sea Islander--prove that He is more than man, and that in his human nature there burns the fire of Deity? Nay, as the darkness has grown thicker over the world, and one light after another has died out, leaving Him shining in brilliant and glorious loneliness, has there not been abundant witness borne to the fire which is in the heart of the cloud? "Yes, Jesus is God; in Him the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily, and it is because of this that He is able to fight and guide the generations of mankind. The Life has ever been the Light of men. Not to believe that degrades the character of Christ below contempt, and leaves us face to face with an insoluble problem of how to account for his influence upon the world. II. AS TO ITS FUNCTIONS. The work of the fire-cloud was threefold --to lead, to shield, and to illumine. It led.--The wilderness was a trackless waste to the hosts of Israel, and they were absolutely dependent on the cloud to show their path, and to find out a resting-place each night. On this point the Divine commands admitted of no doubt or question. When the cloud gathered itself up from the Tabernacle on which it brooded, the hosts must strike their tents and follow. However desirable the site of the camp, they must leave it. However difficult the desert paths, they must traverse them. However uninviting the spot where it stopped, they must halt there, and remain just so long as it tarried. It might be a Marah, without palms, or wells, or shelter; but thither they must go, and there they must remain, though many days should elapse. It might be an Elim, with palms and wells of water, and everything that could render a residence desirable to the tired travellers; but they must be gone from it when the cloud started, though they had enjoyed it for but a brief spell. The cloud might be taken up by day or by night; but there was no choice, except to follow, or to wander in a trackless waste and die. For the manna fell and the water flowed, and the Divine protection was enjoyed, only where the cloud rested. It shielded.--For, probably, when the people had pitched their tents on some exposed and scorched plain, it unfolded itself like a vast canopy, its base resting on the Tabernacle which stood in the midst of the camp, whilst its fleecy folds were spread out so as to screen the furthest extremities of the camp from the overpowering heat of the noontide sun. It gave light.--Whilst the camp was hushed in deep slumber it watched over it like the eye of God. The people had no need of the sun by day, or of the moon by night; for the Lord had become their everlasting Light, and the days of their mourning might have been ended. There was a sense in which there was no night there, and they needed not candle or beacon-fire or torch; for the Lord God gave them light. Following the cloud, they had no need to abide in darkness; they already possessed the light of rife. All this the Lord Jesus is willing to be to us. In Him all the fullness dwells. In his many-sided nature God has made all grace to abound, that we, having all-sufficiency in all things, should be abundantly filled and satisfied out of Him. In days of doubt He will be our Guide; in days of trial our Covert and Shade; in days of darkness our Light. Nay more, as in the Pullman carriage the electric light comes on before the tunnel is entered and lingers after it is left, so special manifestations of the presence of Jesus will precede and follow times of special trial. The peace and blessedness of our earthly pilgrimage will be in direct proportion as we appropriate Jesus in these various aspects of his character and work. Too many of us reserve Him for special times and purposes, as we keep our capital sacredly sealed from use in the bank; too few of us use Him as the spending money which we carry in our pockets and employ for every trifling need. The needs and trials of life are probably intended by God to compel us to search for and discover the fullness of Jesus. It is probable that men would never have discovered the treasures of the natural world had it not been for the pressure of hunger and want; and it is certain that many of us had never known what the Lord Jesus can be to the human soul but for the failure of everything beside, which drove us to Him. Our Father sometimes gives us a glimpse of perfect bliss through some earthly channel; and then as suddenly closes it up, that we may be forced to take the freshly realized thirst to the only fountain which can really appease it. When we first enter the kingdom, God gives us a whole Christ for the supply of our infinite requirements; but at first we catch only a glimpse of the lower shelves of his Divine sufficiency, and perhaps suppose that they are all. But as we help ourselves to these and grow, the veil slowly uplifts, and we see other and higher shelves; and gradually our faith becomes stronger, and taller, and more able to help itself to the added wealth which it perceives to be its own in Christ Jesus. There is no need for us then to spend our lives in this world, desolate and forlorn, lacking the blessedness and power which others so evidently possess, and bemoaning the barrenness of our lot; there, right before us, is Jesus in all his glorious fullness, waiting to take the shape of our need, as water of the pitcher that carries it. It is for us to claim Him, and make ours by faith any special side of his being which our circumstances specially demand as necessary. When we have learnt this lesson, we can look with equanimity on frost and thaw, on autumn and winter, on the dying Cherith and the blighted grain; our sources of supply lie far away in the nature of God, who is the perennial fountain, the unwaning day, the unending summer of love. The differences which obtain among Christian men are very largely due to the different ratio in which they have learnt to appropriate Christ--not by a rush of emotion, but by a naked faith. Rutherford said truly, "There are curtains to be drawn aside in Christ that we never saw, of new foldings of love in Him; I despair that ever I shall win to the far end of that love, there are so many pries in it." III. AS TO THE CONDITIONS. "He that followeth Me." We must put Christ first. He must hold the position of Leader and Guide, Primate and King. Our one question must ever be, Which way is He taking? and we may generally ascertain this as we endeavour to answer one of the following questions : (1) What is the law of Christ? (2) What is the will of Christ? (3) What would Christ do under these circumstances? If we are not sure, we must wait till we are; but knowing, we must follow at all costs. Oh to keep just behind Him--not running on in front, or lagging behind! They say that lambs are taught to follow at the heels of a shepherd, by his dropping for them savoury morsels, such as they like; and we may well follow hard after Him whom we love, and who loves us, upheld by his right hand, because of the inestimable benefits which will accrue. We cannot follow Jesus except we leave all--our own judgment and wisdom, our schemes and preferences, our predilections and fancies; but if we dare to forsake them, and step right away from the boat, we shall win an abundant compensation. Was Paul a loser, who suffered the loss of all things that he might win Christ? Follow Jesus, Christian! keep Him always well before thee in every path of duty; in every sphere of service; in every attack, like Jonathan's, on the stronghold of the foe. Tread no track where his footprints do not appear. But when thou descriest them, plant in them thy feet, defying aught to separate thee from Him. Shall not walk in darkness.--Not in the darkness of ignorance and error; not in the darkness of perplexity and confusion; not in the darkness of joylessness and depression. If any man dares to follow Christ so far as he knows, deliberately sacrificing his own will and way to his, it is simply marvellous how the mists will roll up, the night clouds disperse, and the perplexities which had beset the soul give way as brushwood before the tread of the sportsman. Endeavour to please Christ absolutely; and you will know almost immediately what He wants to be done, and how. You may not be able to see more than a step in advance; but dare to take that step, and you will see the next and the next. "If thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light." But shall have the light of life.--Light is essential to life. Without light flowers would be colourless, even if they grew; animate and inanimate creation would fail; and the world would hasten back to primeval chaos, out of which light came. And equally necessary is it for the inner life to be sustained and nourished by communion with, and obedience to, the Lord Jesus. Apart from Him it is doomed to wither. In Him, through Him, and by Him alone, can it thrive. There is no doubt about this. Begin even now to believe in and follow Him, though it may involve death and the grave; yet, as surely as the soul follows Him, acting up to all its present convictions of duty, it will emerge into a clearness of vision and a vigour of life which shall vindicate its choice for ever. Let Jesus be your pillar of cloud and fire!