And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it]. John 1:5 AMPC
The Context and Focus:
We read yesterday about the place of light in our present world, and how important it is for this light to be made manifest. We were made aware that as children of God, we are that light, but today's verse goes back to the very origin and foundation of that light. What/who is this light, and how will that knowledge help me going forward? First of all, that which existed before I came will be greater than me. If the bible refers to a time, calling it the beginning, there is no scientific evidence that can disprove that without valid proof. If God calls a particular time the beginning, it is because He Himself determined it to be so. The same expression: 'In the beginning' starts the entire bible in Genesis 1:1, referring to why, how and when the earth, as we know it now, was created. That is power, ability, and authority. I do not know what theory or concept of creation you hold on to, but it is important to know and follow the truth. If God has revealed his mind to us, it will be criminal to ignore his advice and counsel. Do you know and follow the Truth?
The Message:
The person referred to as the Word of God, by and in and for whom all things were made, is also referred to as the light in the verse above. I note that in the version above, the light is stated in upper case, which means it has to be a name or linked to an actual person. Jesus calls Himself the light of the world, and as we know, He does not lie. If he is indeed the Light, I have to see evidence of his impact. As I take stock from the revealed truth of God, as documented in the Bible, just about 120 people, filled with the Holy Spirit, changed the world at the time, preaching and teaching about this light. Their lives did not matter to them as much as bringing the knowledge of the Light to the world around them. Many of them suffered great loss, even to the point of laying down their lives, yet they did it joyfully, because they knew there was greater good coming out of their experiences. That is what an understanding of who this light is can give you. It changes the perspective about many things, and helps focus on the things that really matter. Do I know this light?
The Conclusion:
This personal knowledge is the key to identifying and defeating the darkness of this world. There is a world system that has been given over to darkness, and becusse it is under the control of the devil, the world system is irredeemable. It is only those who come to the personal knowledge of the Truth and the Light that are delivered from the power or sin and darkness which holds the world in captivity. Please note that for all the people God has made, there is a plan for salvation. If I can come to Jesus, it will not matter what the depth or scope of my sin is; the blood of Jesus is able to cleanse, save and deliver from the power of darkness. It does not matter how long I have lived in sin; the light of God is older, and can save. This is why darkness can never comprehend the power of the Light. It does not understand grace, mercy or forgiveness. These are only available in and through the Light. The Light wants to come into our hearts and change our eternal destiny. Would you let Him? God's time of favour is here.
No comments:
Post a Comment