“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” I Peter 2:9
1. As children of light we are to live as children of light. Ephesians 5:8
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light”
A. Once we were in sin and darkness but now we are out of the darkness and live in the light. There is to be no twilight zone, no shady gray areas in a Christians life.
2. We are to help rescue those who are in darkness. Acts 26:17 Phillips version
“I am sending you to the Gentiles to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God.”
A. This was Jesus’ instruction to Paul. It is the instruction we have received as well. To help people turn from darkness to light, by turning to God and receiving forgiveness of sins.
3. Who are these people and why are they in darkness? II Corinthians 4:4
“In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.“
A. The Bible often contrasts the imagery of darkness and light, where unbelievers are darkness and believers are light.
B. Unbelievers live in spiritual darkness because of Satan’s influence.
4. We can follow Jesus' example. Matthew 9:35-38
“And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.”
A. Jesus was intentional.
B. Jesus was holistic.
C. Jesus saw with compassion.
D. Jesus prayed for workers.