Living in the Light
This week at Hollywood Community Church we begin a new sermon series titled, "Living in the Light" from I John. This small book, written by the apostle John towards the end of his life, is certainly relevant for the day in age in which we are living. Just as the first century Christians, you and I have been called to shine the light of Jesus Christ in the midst of a dark world.
As we begin our study let me mention several reasons why this book is so relevant for those of us that are living in the 21st century...
* I John was written between 85-90 A.D. The vast majority of this book's recipients were 2nd and 3rd generation believers that had never seen Jesus Christ. Their knowledge of Jesus, His life and work was dependent upon eyewitness testimony. Like Thomas, they had to believe without seeing.
We can certainly relate with that. Today, we are dependent upon the testimony of the Apostles and the reliability of the Gospels in order for us to know, understand and believe in Jesus Christ. Our faith comes by hearing, reading and studying God's Word (Romans 10:17).
* Secondly, John encourages his readers to be light in the midst of a dark world. Just as the darkness of sin prevailed at the close of the first century, it definately prevails today. We live in a world that embraces sin and rejects God. Our family, friends and neighbors, desperately need to have the light of the Gospel shined in their lives. Jesus said in Matthew 5:14 - "You are the light of the world." We must live in the light so that they can see Jesus!
As we being this study, let me encourage you to take the time and repeatedly read through I John. Allow its words to sink into your mind and heart. Meditate upon its truths, and memorize some of its verses.
The book is small enough that you can read through it several times during the course of the week. I challenge you to do that! This summer, let's allow the truth of I John to change our minds and hearts so that we can truly be a bright light in the midst of a dark world!
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