JESUS: Light of the World
Light of the World: Series Overview
This Christmas and New Year season, we’re celebrating the powerful theme of “The Light of the World.” Throughout this series, we will have been exploring how God’s light pierces through darkness, bringing hope, redemption, and purpose to the world. From creation to the work of the Holy Spirit, we’re seeing God’s relentless pursuit to shine His light and call us to reflect it in the world. Here’s a glimpse of what we’re covering—and what we’re called to live out as the light of Christ.
1. Light Breaks Through the Darkness (Genesis 1:1-5; Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 9:2)
From the beginning, God’s light has been a beacon of order, life, and hope. Even when sin brought spiritual darkness into the world, God’s promise of a Redeemer remained. In creation, we see God speaking light into chaos; in the fall, we see humanity’s need for redemption; and in the promise of Christ, we find hope for a world shrouded in sin. This foundational truth reminds us that no matter how deep the darkness, God’s light is never extinguished.
2. The Arrival of the True Light (John 1:9-14; Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:11)
On Christmas Eve, we will reflect on the incarnation of Christ—the true Light who entered the world to fulfill God’s promise. In Jesus, God’s glory, grace, and truth became visible. His birth is a declaration that God is with us, bringing light to dispel every shadow of sin and despair. As we embrace Christ, we’re reminded that the light of His presence is both personal and eternal, transforming our lives and pointing us toward His glory.
3. The Spirit Sets the World Ablaze (Acts 2:1-4; Acts 1:8; Matthew 5:14-16)
As we transition into the New Year, we will consider the work of the Holy Spirit, Who empowers believers to spread God’s light to the ends of the earth. The descent of the Spirit at Pentecost ignited a bold, global witness for Christ. Just as the Spirit empowered the early church to proclaim the Gospel, we too are called to carry God’s light into every corner of the world—equipped by His presence and strengthened by His power.
4. You Are the Light of the World (Matthew 5:14-16; Ephesians 5:8; 1 Peter 2:9)
In the final message of the series, we’ll turn our attention to Jesus’ call for His followers to be the light of the world. Our identity as light-bearers isn’t just a title; it’s a mission. Through our character, actions, and good works, we reflect the light of Christ to a watching world. Our ultimate purpose is to point others to God’s glory, inviting them to step out of darkness and into the marvelous light of His grace.
Questions to Consider
• How have you experienced God’s light breaking through your own darkness?
• Are you allowing the light of Christ to shine through you in your daily life?
• Who in your life needs to see and experience the hope of God’s light?
Prayer Response: “Lord, thank You for being the Light of the World, piercing through the darkness to bring us hope, redemption, and purpose. Empower us through Your Spirit to reflect Your light, living boldly as witnesses of Your glory. May our lives shine brightly, pointing others to Your love and truth. Amen.”
Memory Verse: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 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 5:14, 16
