Matthew 5:14
As Christians, we are called to be the light in a dark world, shining our light for others to see and bringing hope to those around us.
Chuck Smith emphasizes that Christians are the light of the world, a profound statement given the darkness that pervades society. He argues that while the world seeks enlightenment through knowledge and education, it ultimately fails to address the real issues of human relationships and moral decay. The true light comes from Christ, who not only illuminates our lives but also shines through us, enabling us to reflect His light in a dark world. Smith challenges believers to consider whether their lives demonstrate a distinct difference that points others to Christ. The sermon calls for Christians to embrace their role as the sole source of light in a world desperately in need of hope and truth.
Text
"YE ARE THE LlGHT OF THE WORLD"
Intro: Strange statement in view of men to whom spoken. "Ye" refers to Christians.
I. NEGATIVE INFERENCE, "YE AND YE ALONE."
A. The world is in a state of darkness.
1. This is always basic Christian premise.
a. World always speaking of enlightenment.
b. Key word of Timothy Leary and Hippie social order.
c. The period of the renaissance "new light."
1. Water shed of history.
2. Rebirth of knowledge and learning.
d. Society founded in 18th century "enlightenment."
1. Knowledge is light.
2. Tragedy emphasis on one aspect of knowledge, things -
materialistic - biological.
3. Don't know what to do with knowledge.
e. Knowledge of human relationships never worse.
1. Marriage guidance classes.
B. The Christian has the only answer to the darkness.
1. Philosophers and educators and statesmen have failed.
a. Could gather a few quotes to prove.
b. They do not know real problem nor how to solve it.
1. Used to feel it was lack of education.
c. Great at analysis - no solution.
C. Christ spoke this after Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle.
1. You and you alone are the light.
II. "YE."
A. Ordinary Christian knows more about life than.
B. How is this to be true of us?
1. Jesus also said, "I am the light of the world."
2. The outshining of Christ through us.
a. He not only gives us light, He allows His light to shine forth
through us.
b. Our intimate relation to Christ.
C. This is the second result of being a Christian.
1. First salt - purifying agent.
2. Not always aware of darkness until light appears.
a. Light provides contrast.
3. "This is the condemnation."
a. Men try to put out the light.
4. What is wrong with the world.
a. Man made by God and for God.
b. When man not living for God wrong.
We are living in world of darkness, only light is Christian. Does world see anything
different with you?
Sermon Outline
- The World is in Darkness points: - The world's emphasis on enlightenment has led to a lack of understanding of human relationships - Philosophers, educators, and statesmen have failed to address the problem - Christ spoke this after great thinkers like Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle
- The Christian is the Light points: - Ordinary Christians know more about life than they think - This is possible through our intimate relation to Christ - The Christian is a purifying agent and a source of light in a dark world
Key Quotes
“YE ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD” — Chuck Smith
“You and you alone are the light.” — Chuck Smith
“He not only gives us light, He allows His light to shine forth through us.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- As a Christian, you have the answer to the world's problems and are called to share it with others.
- Your intimate relationship with Christ is the source of your light and power in the world.
- By being a purifying agent and a source of light, you can make a difference in the lives of those around you.