Jesus is the light for the world
Before we can shine our lights for Jesus, we have to understand why Jesus is called the light of the world. First, we read John 8:12 where Jesus says:
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
In this verse we learn two things:
- Jesus calls Himself the light of the world.
- If you follow Jesus, you will not walk in the darkness.
Do you know what the darkness in this verse is? It is sin. Think about your heart as a dark room. Each of us is born with sin in our hearts. Jesus comes like a light to brighten our hearts so that we can see our sins. When we follow Jesus, we can have the light that is life. This is not just any life; it means that we can have eternal life.
Follow Jesus, the light
Now we know that Jesus is the light we must follow Him! Just like a flashlight shows us where to walk when it is dark, Jesus is the light in the darkness. He shows us the way to live, and we can follow him. To learn about how Jesus lived, we have to read the Bible.
You must be a light for the world
Just as we read that Jesus is the light of the world, in Matthew 5 we read that we are the light of the world. First, let’s read Matthew 5:14-16:
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 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.
What does it mean? This verse is telling you that others can see your life. Just think about a city on top of a hill for a moment. At night, with all the lights on, everyone will be able to see the city. That is just what happens to each of us.
When other people look at you, they must be able to see that you are a Christian. The way you live must show that you follow Jesus. Your life must shine like a light. Then, others will see how wonderful the gospel is through you. To spread the bright light of Jesus you must share your faith with others.
Memory verse
let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven
Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
Do you remember what you read?
After you read this whole page, try to answer these questions in your own words:
- Why is Jesus called the light of the world?
- Why is everyone who believe in Jesus called the light of the world?
- Why do you think it is important to share our light with the world?
- What can you do to show the light of Jesus to others? (Think of some examples in you everyday life, such as helping someone, smiling, praying, being kind)
