John 3:19-21
Read John 3:19-21
Helpful Background Information:
There are many similarities between the Gospel of John and the letters of John. A reoccurring theme of John’s writings, and even the overall biblical narrative, is light and darkness. John not only describes Jesus as light, but Jesus even says himself that he is the light of the world (John 8:12).
Light represents goodness, purity, truth, and life. From the text we learn that the Light reveals truth, exposes sin and calls sinners to repentance, but the natural inclination of humanity is to prefer darkness due to sin. Christ’s light uncovers actions, motives, and hidden sins that people would rather conceal. God will ultimately bring every work into judgment, but exposure before Christ now opens the way to confession, forgiveness, and a transformed life.
In a world growing darker, Christians must shine brighter. This is not done by our own strength but by fixing our eyes on the bright light of Jesus, being transformed to glory as we become more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). Let us live in His light and boldly point others to it.
Reflection Questions:
Light exposes sin, and we are held accountable to our sin. So, knowing that we are accountable to God for all things causes us to live differently while on Earth. As Christians, we need to value accountability rather than living in the dark. Why do people resist accountability, and how does Christians' seeing accountability as a good thing serve as a testimony to the world?
We are all susceptible to choosing darkness over light, as we don’t want to be held responsible for the sins we do, or it keeps us comfortable as we don’t have to face hard truths that lead us to change and growth. What is a "darkness" (challenges, temptations, idols,) you struggle with, and how can Jesus' light help overcome these struggles?
Remember that we all used to be lovers of darkness, but we are now called the light of the world because of what Jesus has done for us (Matthew 5:14-16). What are you doing, or could you start doing, to help show others around you that Jesus can do for them what He did for you?