Be Ye Children of Light

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Short Summary
The discourse explores the spiritual symbolism of light and darkness, emphasizing the transformation from a life of ignorance and sin into one illuminated by God’s truth and holiness as described in Scripture. It highlights the believer’s calling to actively walk as “children of light” by casting off darkness, embracing Christ’s righteousness, maintaining prayer and fellowship, practicing love, and bearing witness to God’s kingdom amid a world still overshadowed by moral and spiritual darkness. The message encourages steadfastness, vigilance, and joy in living out this calling while anticipating the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise when light will fully dispel all darkness.

Long Summary
Detailed Summary of the Discourse on “Walking as Children of the Light”

Introduction and Context:
– The speaker reflects on seasonal changes—summer solstice (June 22) marking days shortening, and December 22 marking days lengthening—as metaphors for spiritual light and darkness.
– A personal anecdote about morning sunlight filling the room frames the theme of divine light illuminating our lives.
– Appreciation is expressed for a prior discourse on holiness, linking it to today’s focus on the transforming power of God’s light.

Central Scripture and Theme:
– Ephesians 5:8: “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now ye are light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”
– This verse highlights the transformation from spiritual darkness (ignorance, sin) to light (truth, holiness).
– The journey from darkness to light symbolizes moving from bondage to freedom, ignorance to understanding, and wandering to purposeful walking with God.
– 1 Peter 2:9 is cited: believers are called out of darkness into God’s marvelous light.
– The discourse is structured around four questions:
1. What is darkness?
2. What is light?
3. Why are we called children of light?
4. How can we better walk in the light today?

Understanding Darkness:
– Darkness is more than absence of physical light; it symbolizes absence of truth, righteousness, and knowledge of God.
– Biblical references:
– 1 John 1:5: “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.”
– John 3:19-20: people love darkness because their deeds are evil; darkness hides evil and separates from God.
– Isaiah 45:7: God reigns over light and darkness, but evil is the absence of God’s presence.
– Ephesians 4:18: many have understanding darkened, alienated from God due to ignorance.
– Romans 8:22: creation groans, yearning for God’s healing light.
– Historical dark periods:
– The “Dark Ages” obscured truth with error and oppressive doctrines.
– Isaiah 60:2 and Isaiah 62 highlight darkness covering the earth.
– Despite darkness, God’s faithful remnant preserved truth (John 1:5).
– The Reformation and 19th-century Bible Student movement rekindled spiritual light.
– Daniel 12:4 speaks of increasing knowledge in the “time of the end.”
– Darkness equates to confusion, fear, and sorrow without God’s presence.
– Romans 13:12 encourages rejoicing that “the night is far spent, the day is at hand.”

Understanding Light:
– Light represents truth, righteousness, and God’s presence throughout Scripture.
– Jesus is “the light of the world” (John 8:12).
– Genesis 1:3: God’s first creative command “Let there be light” symbolizes both physical and spiritual illumination.
– 2 Corinthians 4:6: God shines light into hearts through Jesus Christ.
– Psalm 119:105: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
– God is the “Father of lights” (James 1:17), eternal and unchanging.
– Divine manifestations of light:
– Burning bush (Exodus 3:2)
– Fire on Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18)
– Pillar of fire guiding Israel (Exodus 13:21)
– Shekinah glory filling the temple (1 Kings 8:10-11)
– Example of Nicodemus: coming from spiritual darkness to light through learning from Jesus (John 7:50; 19:39).
– Daniel’s faithful walk in Babylon, a dark environment, exemplifies walking in light by faith and prayer.
– Walking in light involves actively pursuing truth, love, and holiness, not merely avoiding sin.
– Emphasis on “outshining darkness” with clarity and good works.

Physical and Spiritual Light Analogy:
– Light travels in a straight path (physics analogy), symbolizing God’s unwavering truth (Psalm 119:130).
– Anecdote of watching shooting stars shows light traveling vast distances, symbolizing God’s persistent illumination.
– Light heals physically and spiritually—Malachi 4:2: “the Sun of righteousness shall arise with healing in his wings.”
– Personal testimony about recovering from illness by basking in sunlight parallels spiritual renewal through God’s light.
– Psalm 36:9: “In thy light shall we see light.”
– Light grows progressively brighter in believers as they draw closer to God (Proverbs 4:18).
– The Christian life is like a plant needing sunlight to thrive (John 15:4-5).
– Light is not just knowledge but Christ’s life-giving presence.

Being Children of Light:
– Believers are characterized as “children of light” (1 Thessalonians 5:5; Ephesians 5:8).
– This identity means living by truth and righteousness, reflecting Christ’s character.
– Though full kingdom light is future, believers live as if the “kingdom day” has dawned.
– Privilege and responsibility: to shine God’s light, influence others, and avoid darkness.
– Ephesians 5:9-11: “fruit of the light is in all goodness and righteousness and truth; have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.”
– Luke 16:8: Christians should exhibit zeal for spiritual aims.
– 1 John 1:7: walking in light brings fellowship with God and cleansing from sin.
– Walking in light requires continuous effort—prayer, study, self-examination, and love.

Practical Steps to Walk in the Light:
1. Cast off works of darkness:
– Sincerely turn away from sin and selfish habits.
– Live with integrity as if Christ is always present (Acts 24:16).
2. Put on the armor of light:
– Clothe oneself with Christ’s truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word (Romans 13:14; Ephesians 6:13-17).
– Rely on Christ’s strength daily to stand firm.
3. Seek close walk with God:
– Through prayer, praise, Scripture study, reflection.
– Like Moses’ face shining after meeting God (Exodus 34:29-30).
4. Practice love:
– Love is the hallmark of light (Ephesians 5:2).
– Demonstrate kindness, forgiveness, humility, concern for others.
– Love keeps the spiritual lamp burning bright.
5. Shine outward as a witness:
– Let good works glorify God (Matthew 5:16).
– Actively share the Gospel (Isaiah 43:10).
– Giving light to others strengthens one’s own light.
6. Stay awake and watchful:
– Avoid spiritual complacency (1 Thessalonians 5:6).
– Be alert to world events and prophecy (Mark 13:37).
– Maintain zeal and readiness to pray and resist temptation.

Encouragement and Hope:
– Believers are not alone; God’s presence is constant (Isaiah 60:19; Matthew 28:20).
– Fellowship with other “children of light” worldwide supports the walk.
– The darkness is passing; the true light now shines (1 John 2:8).
– Future hope: shining as the sun with Christ in His kingdom (Matthew 13:43; Revelation 22:16).
– Joy and peace flow from God’s unchanging love (James 1:17).
– The discourse closes with a call to “joyfully walk as children of light,” keeping lamps trimmed and hearts encouraged.
– Final exhortation: serve one another with love, speak truth courageously, and reflect Christ’s character, the true Light of the world.

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Key Bible Verses Cited:

– Ephesians 5:8 — “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now ye are light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”
– 1 Peter 2:9 — Called out of darkness into His marvelous light.
– 1 John 1:5 — “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.”
– John 3:19-20 — Men love darkness because their deeds are evil.
– Isaiah 45:7 — God forms light and creates darkness.
– Ephesians 4:18 — Understanding darkened by ignorance.
– Romans 8:22 — Creation groans for redemption.
– John 8:12 — Jesus is the light of the world.
– Genesis 1:3-4 — “Let there be light.”
– 2 Corinthians 4:6 — God shines light in our hearts via Jesus.
– Psalm 119:105 — “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet.”
– Exodus 3:2, 19:18, 13:21 — God appearing as fire/light.
– 1 Kings 8:10-11 — Shekinah glory filling the temple.
– John 7:50; 19:39 — Nicodemus’ journey to light.
– Daniel 1:8; Daniel 6:10 — Daniel’s faithfulness in darkness.
– Malachi 4:2 — The sun of righteousness with healing wings.
– Psalm 36:9 — “In thy light shall we see light.”
– John 15:4-5 — Abide in Christ for spiritual life.
– 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6 — Children of light and day.
– Matthew 5:14, 16 — “Ye are the light of the world.”
– 2 Corinthians 4:6 — God shining light in our hearts.
– Colossians 1:13 — Delivered from darkness into the kingdom.
– Acts 9:3-5, 26:18 — Paul’s conversion from darkness to light.
– Revelation 22:16 — Jesus, the bright and morning star.
– Daniel 12:4, 12:9 — Increase of knowledge and unsealing truth.
– John 16:13 — Spirit guiding into all truth.
– Romans 13:12 — “The night is far spent, the day is at hand.”
– Isaiah 2:5 — Call to walk in the light of the Lord.
– 1 John 2:8 — The true light now shineth.
– Isaiah 60:2, 19; 62 — God’s glory and everlasting light.
– Matthew 28:20 — “I am with you always.”
– Proverbs 4:18 — The path of the just shines brighter.
– Ephesians 5:9-11 — Fruit of the light.
– Luke 16:8 — Be zealous for heavenly aims.
– 1 John 1:7 — Fellowship and cleansing in the light.
– Romans 13:14 — Put on the armor of light.
– Ephesians 6:13-17 — Spiritual armor.
– Acts 24:16 — Maintaining a clear conscience.
– Isaiah 43:10 — Be witnesses of God.
– Mark 13:37 — Be watchful and alert.

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This detailed summary captures the discourse’s key themes: the biblical contrast of darkness and light, the spiritual transformation of believers into children of light, practical guidance for daily faithful living, and the hopeful anticipation of the full light of God’s kingdom. The numerous Scripture references provide a solid biblical foundation for the teaching.

Transcript

You know, we talked about frost on the pumpkin yesterday up in Michigan. It’s kind of cool. It’s, it’s kind of chilly up there. I watched a little bit of the Michigan, Michigan State game, and I could see everybody had their hats on. It was kind of chilly.

But there’s two days of particular interest to me, and the first one is June 22nd, summer solstice. That’s when days start to get shorter again, right? You start to lose daylight. The other one is December 22nd, and that’s in the darkness of the middle of winter. Days start to get longer again.

And those are two kind of important dates to me, and that’s what we want to talk about today. This morning I got up, we had a nice cup of coffee with Sarah, Pat and John. We talked a little bit, and then I went back into the room and I was kind of going through my notes, and around 8 o’ clock the sun came up just over the trees and it kind of filled the room and it was beautiful. So that’s kind of what we want to talk about today.

The Light and I appreciate Brother Comey’s service yesterday on holiness, and I appreciate the thought that we may not feel holy, but we have to strive to be holy because we will be holy someday, Lord willing. So I appreciate the thoughts yesterday. Brother Homer. Our discourse today centers on the transforming power of God’s light, as expressed in the Apostle Paul’s powerful words in Ephesians 5.

8 Ephesians 5:8 for ye were sometimes darkness, but now ye are light in the world. Walk as children of the light. This scripture not only reminds us of our past condition, but more importantly, it points to our present calling and our future hope. From darkness to light, from ignorance and bondage to understanding and to freedom. From wandering aimlessly, to walking in service with God to God.

That is our journey, our transformation and our sacred consecration, and it is a journey that we do not walk alone. We walk with Christ. Look around you. We walk with one another and in harmony with the great divine plan of the ages.

Our theme text reminds us that as brethren in Christ, we have undergone a transformation from darkness to light in a world still shrouded in moral and spiritual darkness. God has graciously called us out of darkness and into his marvelous light. 1st Peter 2:9. It is a great honor and a responsibility to be counted among the children of light in our time together. This morning we will explore what the Scriptures say about darkness and light and how we can faithfully walk in light today.

Specifically, we will consider four Key questions that structure our study. First, what is darkness? Second, what is light? Why are we called children of light? And how can we walk better in the light today?

By examining these points, we hope to encourage one another to remain steadfast and shine brightly each and every day. Let us begin by understanding. Understanding the nature of spiritual darkness versus light. 30 years ago, 30 years ago, brother Larry and Sister Debbie were in Grand Rapids. Why do I remember that so well?

That’s when Sarah and I were married. So do the math. We’ve been married 30 years, and brother Larry and Sister Debbie served us, and Brother Larry gave us the notes from his service 30 years ago. So thank you, Brother Larry. Appreciate that.

And we’re doing well, brother. So you got us off to a good start. You know, that was a blessing, too.

I’m trying to think.

Sister Debbie were there. Brother Leonard and Sister Josephine were there. Brother Len, Sister Gretchen, Sister Martha Mull was there. You know, so it’s just. It’s just fond memories of that.

So that’s 30 years ago. So thank you, Sarah, for walking with me in light all those years. 34 years ago, I was pursuing Sarah. Pursuing, and if she had any interest in me, she really didn’t show.

So for the younger brethren, I was wooing her. Wooing means to kind of pursue to, you know, and you have to do it right? You have to do it, you know, respectfully, that type of thing. But I had to kind of change my game a little bit. So I would kind of show up where you probably wouldn’t think I would show up.

So she was down in Austin, Texas. She was visiting Jan Fetchro and Doug Fetro. So I just happened to be in Austin at the same time with a friend. So I knocked on the door, and sure enough, Sister Jan Fetcher let me in, and Sarah was a little bit surprised.

But, you know, we kind of make these things work. We had fun. We spent a few days together. But we went into the caves of Austin. I think some of you have been there, and I’m a little bit claustrophobic.

I don’t like tight spaces. So it’s a little bit of a stretch. But you have to do what you have to do right when you’re wooing somebody, and so we enjoyed that, and a little bit nervous.

And at the end of the tour, the tour guide asked, she said, is it okay if I turn off the lights in the cave, shut the door and turn off the lights? So you can imagine if we turned off all the lights in this room, maybe the exit signs would still be lit or watches or phones. You’d see a little bit of a light. But in a cave, you turn off the lights. I don’t know if anyone has.

I’m sure you have been. It is the most unsettling feeling I have ever felt in my entire life. I was. I wasn’t screaming out loud, but I was screaming inside. I need light.

I want light, and it might have been 10 seconds, but it might have been an hour. That’s how I felt. That’s the kind of darkness that we’re talking about compared to the light. Darkness in Scripture goes beyond the mere absence of physical light.

It symbolizes the absence of truth, absence of righteousness, and the absence of the knowledge of God. Just as physical darkness prevents us from seeing clearly, spiritual darkness blinds our hearts and minds to divine truth. The Bible declares God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. First John 1:5 1 John 1:5 so anything opposed to God’s character, sin, error, ignorance dwells in darkness. Jesus said men love darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.

John 3:19 in other words, those who do wrong stay in the shadows to avoid exposure by God’s truth. John 3:20 John 3:20 Darkness is often paired with evil and separation from God.

Isaiah 45:7 underscores that God reigns over both light and darkness. Yet evil exists only as the absence of God’s presence and goodness, just as darkness is not an independent entity but a void. Where light is missing, evil is the void left where God’s righteousness and love are not embraced. The New Testament portrays our world as that present evil age still shrouded in spiritual darkness. Paul warns that many have their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them.

Ephesians 4:18 still today, the adversary continues to actively blind minds to the gospel, preventing the light of Christ’s salvation from shining into their hearts.

Historically, this long night of sorrow has affected all humanity. Brother Russell described our era as a dark night filled with weeping, sighing, pain, sickness, and death, a period which God permits. God permits it for wise and loving reasons, but one that will not last. It will not last forever. Even creation itself groaneth and travaileth in pain.

Romans 8:22 yearning for God’s healing light.

There have been especially dark seasons when truth was obscured. After the early apostolic era, error crept in and traditions overshadowed the pure gospel, a period often called the dark Ages. Jesus expressed the night cometh no man.

In those centuries, doctrine, like eternal torment and oppressive religious systems hid God’s loving character from mankind, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy that darkness shall cover the earth and gross darkness the people. Isaiah 60, verse 2, Isaiah 62. Yet even then God’s light remained. Though hidden from most, in every age God preserved a faithful remnant who kept his light burning. The light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not.

John 1:5. With the Reformation, Scripture began to shine through once more, and in the 19th century, the Bible student movement under Brother Russell rekindled a spiritual understanding. As Proverbs 4:18 says, Proverbs 4:18, the path of the just shineth more and more unto the perfect day. We had the Young People seminar in Labor Day, and Brother Tom Ruggierello came up and gave a service on the Bible student movement on Christianity.

And so he hasn’t shared it with a lot. I think he’s given it a couple times to the brethren in Chicago. But if you see him, give him a little poke and say you’d like to hear or see his service. It’s wonderful, friends, just walking through the history and I think he starts with, let’s see, he starts with, yeah, thanks, Sarah. See that 30 years pays off.

She’s my go to Today we live in the day of Daniel. He called the time of the end, Daniel 12:4, when knowledge, both spiritual and practical, increases. Many in the world see turmoil and confusion around them. But believers recognize these as signs of the dawn, of a coming dawn, the storm that will scatter the powers of darkness and let the healing rays of the sun of righteousness. God often uses apparent disorder to prepare the way for restoration and order.

In essence, spiritual darkness represents life without God’s presence. That is confusion. It’s fear, it’s sorrow. All of us, all of us have had some level of darkness in our lives, some level at some time in our lives before we saw the light. But we rejoice that the night is far spent and the day is at hand.

Romans 13:12. Romans 13:12. So what is light? The theme of light versus darkness runs throughout the entire Bible. As Brother Russell reminds us in reprint 5718, light consistently represents truth and righteousness, while darkness signifies error, ignorance and sin.

Our Lord Jesus himself declared, I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 8:12. This light, God’s light, first appeared in Genesis 1:3, and God said, let there be light.

And there was light. This is the very first recorded command from God in Scripture, marking the beginning of creation itself. The light here represents first, physical illumination, the dispelling of darkness in the natural world. Let there be light. Second, it’s the symbolic.

It’s symbolic of divine truth and revelation. God is initiating order, he’s initiating understanding, and he’s initiating life itself. 2nd Corinthians 4:6. 2nd Corinthians 4:6. For God, who said, let light shine out of darkness, has shown in our hearts to give the light of knowledge, of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

It also shows the start of God’s plan for the world, separating light from darkness. This is a process for God. Genesis 1:4, and God saw the light, that it was good, and God divided the light from the darkness, and so it begins for all of us.

This verse shows how God’s word brings light. We talked about this yesterday, both literally and spiritually. It marks the beginning of his redemptive plan and invites us to see light as a symbol of truth, goodness, and God’s presence. In Psalm 119. 105, your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path.

Indeed, God’s first creative act was the creation of light. Light is used repeatedly to signify God’s presence and divine revelation. The apostle James speaks of God as the Father of lights, with whom there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Unlike the sun, whose brightness changes throughout the day from sunrise to sunset, God is eternally consistent and constant. When God manifests himself to humanity, he frequently does so through the imagery of fire or radiant light.

Examples. Moses encountered God in a burning bush. Exodus 3:2.

But that must have been like. Think about that. Second, the Lord descended upon Mount Sinai in fire. Exodus 19:18. Exodus 19:18.

A pillar of fire guided the Israelites through the wilderness onto the promised land. Exodus 13:21. 13:21. During that seminar in Grand Rapids, we’d build a bonfire at night, and so there was no lights in the camp, but you could always see that fire.

And you’d go there and brethren would be there, and it was a blessing. Last is the Shekinah light, and the most holy symbolize God’s dwelling presence. First Kings 8:10 and 11 First Kings 8:10 and 11 and when the priests came out of the holy place, the cloud filled the house of the Lord so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord had shone in the house of the Lord. Cloud.

If you look into it, especially reprint 3283 reprint 3283, it talks about that cloud is actually translated extreme brightness. So think about that. At the Grand Rapids convention, the younger ones with the Sunday school class, they actually laid out a footprint of the tabernacle in the gym. They got some phone blocks and they kind of laid it out, and for me, it was really impressive because you kind of get a sense of the size and what it must have been like to walk in, see the brazen altar, walk in, see the laver, walk in to the Holy, and then look into the Most Holy and the Most Holy.

Based on the sizes, it’s kind of a tight little spot. But you fill that with the Shekinah light and that must have been something very, very special, and that’s what we’re able to be part of and we’re able to see. We also recall Nicodemus, who came to Jesus by night, both literally and symbolically in darkness. He was a teacher of Israel, but his understanding was dim.

Yet as he listened and learned from Jesus, the light began to dawn. We later see him defending Jesus in John 7:50 John 7:50, and assisting him and assisting in his burial in John 1939, a testimony to the gradual enlightenment that comes through seeking truth. We may begin our walk in dim light, hesitant or uncertain, but God meets us where we are. The important thing is to seek the light, to look for it, even if it means coming with questions like Nicodemus, the path becomes clearer and clearer with each faithful step. Nicodemus is a wonderful example for all of us regarding how we are drawn to the light.

We accept it, we learn, and it grows in us. Daniel 2 is a wonderful example. He remained faithful in Babylon, a land full of idolatry and darkness. He refused the King’s food. Daniel 1:8.

Daniel 1:8. Daniel prayed despite threats Daniel 6:10 and he became a bright light in a dark court. Our walk is not judged only by what we avoid, but maybe more importantly, what we actively pursue. Walking in the light is not just about turning from sin. It is about actively pursuing truth, love and holiness.

Studies, conventions, service, prayer, whatever we have the opportunity to do, we need to do. I’m looking for Brother John Manuski and I don’t see him yet. I think it’s awesome that he came down from Canada. He’s the blessing. So if you get a few minutes, spend some time with Brother John Manouski.

He actively came to be here at this convention as you all did and those online as well. A younger brother once told me, we don’t need to out shout the darkness, we simply need to outshine it in this world of confusion, clarity, is compelling. Better to see a sermon than to hear a sermon.

Let us take another step further into this natural light. Let’s talk about literal, physical light. I’m looking at Brother Larry because he’s a physics teacher and he knows all about this straight path of light. Just as light travels directly, unless bent, God’s truth is unwavering. The entrance of thy words giveth light.

Psalm 119, 130.

Let’s see.

Emily. Emily came up to the Grand Rapids convention. She was at the seminar, too, and she said that she wanted to see a shooting star. So she came up, and that was one of her goals. So they were all out.

The young ones were all out, and they were down by the lake on a platform on a dock, and so I came out. I was trying to keep an eye on them, and I looked out. I didn’t see anybody on the dock at nighttime. Darkness, water, darkness, water.

Darkness doesn’t mix. So I went down to see where they’re at, and they were all laying down on the dock looking up. How many shooting stars did you see that night, Emily? Ten.

And that light. That light comes from thousands of millions miles away, and that light is consistent and it’s constant, and it just keeps coming. Thanks, Emily. Darkness vanished by light.

In physics, even a small beam removes darkness. Likewise, God’s truth dispels ignorance, fear, and sin, transforming hearts with even a spark of. Of his word. Proverbs 15:23 talks about a word spoken in season. I think all of us have been in situations where we can provide a little bit of truth to somebody that needs it, someone that’s looking for it, and that helps them, and it also helps us.

And it brings honor and glory to our Heavenly Father, and it helps us to get closer to that holiness that Brother Comey was talking about yesterday. Reflecting light just as a smooth surface reflects bright images. We are called to mirror Christ’s character. Let your light so shine before men.

Matthew 5:16, Growing ever more like him. Now, if I get a mirror and I want to shine something to Brother Larry, I have to make sure that that mirror is lined up properly. Right. It has to be the right angle. I have to position that right.

Likewise, we have to position ourselves rightly so we can reflect God’s power, God’s light, and shine it out. That’s what we’re talking about here. Healing energy of light. Certain wavelengths bring physical healing, infrared, ultraviolet. Similarly, the Son of righteousness rises with the healing in his wings.

Malachi 4 2. Malachi 4 2. Restoring and energizing us toward righteousness and peace.

I’ve had some medical stuff the last 10 years. Just. We all have stuff. We all have something. About five years ago, I had a surgery, and I just wasn’t really recovering very well.

The doctor, I think all of us have heard this. That’s going to be about 10 days, and you’ll be. You’ll be fine. We were going on a few weeks, and I just wasn’t healing.

I just wasn’t. I didn’t. I didn’t turn the corner yet, and it was February. It was dark outside.

It was cold. I was probably depressed, and I said, I have to do something. I got to do something. So I prayed about it.

And I would go out into our family room and I’d open the slider and just the sunlight, and I’d kind of stand there, shorts and T shirt. Neighbors probably thought I was kind of strange, but that sun just warmed me. That sun, that bright light just warmed me, and I could just kind of feel very good about it. I felt better.

And I listened to your dad’s talk. Brother Mike, Children of the light from 1969. So just things like that, the physical light, the spiritual light, it all helps to help us, to aid us. If darkness is the absence of truth and goodness, then light is their presence and fullness. Just as physical light enables clear vision, God’s light gives a spiritual sight.

In Thy light shall we see light.

Psalm 36:9. All true enlightenment flows from him and grows in us as we earnestly speak it. Light builds upon light, growing ever so brighter as we draw closer to him. God’s Word is a primary or the primary source of this light, guiding us through the shadows of this world. The entrance of Thy word giveth light.

It giveth understanding unto the simple.

Psalm 119, 130. When we read and internalize Scriptures with receptive hearts, divine truth dispels confusion and error so that we may walk in the light of its counsel. Above all, Jesus Christ is light personified. I am the light of this world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

John 8:12. We talked about this yesterday. He is the Logos, the perfect reflection of the Father’s brilliance. When he came, those who sat in darkness saw a great light. Matthew 4:16.

By following Jesus, by listening to his voice and walking in his footsteps, and we escape spiritual darkness and enjoy the enlightenment and vitality that comes from fellowship with God. When a person turns to God in love and faith, a light is kindled in the heart he delivers us from the power of darkness and translates us into the kingdom of his dear son.

Colossians 1:13. On the road to Damascus, Saul was blinded by a literal light from heaven. Acts 9:3 5. Acts 9:3 5. Symbolizing the truth that would transform him as the apostle Paul.

He later described his mission as bringing people from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God. Acts 26:18. Every Christian consecration, though less dramatic than Saul, transfers us from night to day within our hearts. Enlightenment replaces ignorance. Joy and hope replace sorrow and despair.

In the broader scope of God’s plan, light has been increasingly progressive. Scripture associates Messiah’s kingdom with a sunrise. The bright and morning star will herald Christ’s reign. Revelation 22:16. Revelation 22:16 we live in a period called the dawn of the millennial day.

In previous ages, much of God’s plan was hidden. Colossians 1:26. Colossians 1:26 but now the seals are being loosed. Daniel 12:9. Daniel 12:9 and the scroll of truth unrolled.

The Holy Spirit guides the humble into all truth, all truth. John 16:13, revealing doctrines such as the ransom for all times of restitution, the true condition of the dead, and the purpose of Christ’s return, none of which was clear until this age. As Proverbs 4:18 declares. Proverbs 4:18, the path of the just is as a shining light that shineth more and more until the perfect day. Those of you who knew my dad, many of you do, Tony Malinowski, he loved flowers, he loved plants.

And when I was growing up, my. My friends would go be playing baseball or football or whatever, and I’d have to trim plants or pull weeds or pick stuff, you know, and then it was kind of a challenge. But today I’m thankful for that. One of the things he liked to do is he would start plants from seed. I don’t know if you know what that means, but he would get seeds, and basically he would get them wet, and then he’d basically put them in soil, and then they would grow.

And then as they grew, he would plant them in the garden. He would also take the plants out of the garden, put them into pots, I should say. We would do it, and then I’d have to take them downstairs so they go dormant for the winter months, and then in the springtime, I have to take them out, take them upstairs.

We had a back porch with the. With the light coming in, and those plants would just. It always amazes. It still amazes me, those little twigs, those little brown things sticking out of the ground. Come springtime, they just pop.

And it always amazes me still. But every once in a while I’d forget one, right? I’d forget one downstairs and my dad would say, hey, what about the tomato plants? Or what about the currant bush? Or something like that?

And I’d go downstairs, I’d get it, I’d bring it upstairs, and it was just again, just kind of this withering thing, and I’m like, really? And I’d put it in the sunlight and you’d come back in three or four, five, six days, whatever, and that thing would just be sprouting, just coming up. Likewise, we cannot thrive if we live away from Jesus, the Son of Righteousness. When we neglect prayer, fellowship or study, we begin to droop spiritually.

But if we come into the sunlight of his presence, we are renewed and blossom with Christian graces. As Jesus said, abide in me, for apart from me ye can do nothing.

John 15:4 5 Light for the Christian is not merely doctrine or knowledge. It is the life giving presence of Christ in our lives, continually illuminating our path and revealing reality as God sees it. Light is the sphere of God’s truth, purity, love and life. Light originates in the Father, radiates through the Son, and is conveyed to us by the Holy Spirit in the Scriptures. A smooth and easy flow.

Light dispels the darkness of sin and error, bringing hope of a new day. No wonder Jesus told his followers, ye are the light of the world.

Matthew 5:14 as children of light, we embody God’s radiance to a world still walking in shadows and walking in and darkness, the darkness I talked about in that cave. Children of light is a biblical designation for believers. Ye are all the children of light and the children of the day. We are not of the night, nor of darkness.

As a Hebrew idiom, to be a child of something means to be characterized by it.

Just as children of disobedience habitually disobey. Children of light belong to the realm of truth and righteousness. By believing and obeying the Gospel’s light, we become heirs of that illumination, true light bearers in a world still veiled in darkness. Though full daylight has yet to dawn, we live as if as if the kingdom day is already here. We are awake before sunrise.

I don’t get up a lot of times before sunrise, but we are awake before sunrise, busily engaged in our Father’s work while others still slumber in darkness. Brother Russell described us as citizens of a new order, a future dispensation of light who must put off all that belongs to the present age of shadows. Our values, our hopes, and our conduct should reflect this coming kingdom standard, seeing people and creation as God intends them to be, when the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord.

Habakkuk 2:14 to be a child of light is a tremendous privilege, but it’s also a tremendous responsibility. God has shined in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of his glory in the face of Jesus Christ. 2nd Corinthians 4:6 2nd Corinthians 4:6 in that dawn glow, we gain insight into current world events. Brother Len shared that with us yesterday and more importantly, into God’s loving and eternal purposes for all of mankind. A L l all of mankind, Jesus assured his followers, blessed are your eyes for they see, and blessed are your ears for they hear.

Matthew 13:16 because we can see ahead of time, so to speak, we live today in light and hope, confident that one day we will shine as the sun with Christ in His kingdom.

Matthew 13:43 yet privilege carries responsibility. Light is meant to shine, not to be hidden under a basket. Ephesians 5:8 Ephesians 5:8 declares, now are ye light in the Lord, and immediately exhorts, walk as children of the light, take action and move forward. The fruit of that light is goodness and righteousness and truth. Ephesians 5:9 we are to have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead reprove them.

Ephesians 5:11 Ephesians 5:11 in other words, a child of light naturally gravitates toward what is pure, what is honorable, what is just. Just as a healthy person avoids a damp, moldy cellar, our mission of children of light is to live in that light ourselves and to bear witness to the coming kingdom. Having been called out of darkness into his marvelous light, we show forth God’s praises by proclaiming the truth and exemplifying the transforming power of his light in our daily conduct. Jesus likened his followers to diligent workers in the daytime who do not stumble as those who stumble in the darkness. If worldly people can display zeal and shrewdness and passion for temporal goals, how much more should we press forward with spiritual zeal for heavenly aims?

Luke 16:8 because we possess this light, we must not grow complacent or naive. Let us not sleep as others do, but let us watch and be sober.

Thessalonians 5:6 as the day draws near, our calling is to remain alert, purposeful, and intentional, so that our light does not grow dim. Being children of light means enjoying God’s present illumination and living in a way that others seeing our good works may come to glorify our Father in heaven. To walk in the light means to conduct ourselves according to enlightenment and holiness that we have received. It implies continuous action, continuous movement, a process, a way of life. The Apostle John writes, if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses us cleanses us from all sins.

1 John 1:7 1 John 17 Walking in the light keeps us in close fellowship with God and with Christ and in true harmony with all of you, with all of our brethren who are also in light. It also keeps us under the cleansing merit of Jesus sacrifice because we’re staying where he can correct us and forgive our missteps. In contrast, if we stray back into darkness, we break fellowship with God. Thus we have every motivation to stay in the light and to walk worthy of our calling as children of the light. But how do we do this consistently?

The Scriptures and our faithful brethren outline several practical steps we can summarize in a few key points below. For Walking in the Light Cast off every work of darkness. As children of light, we cannot claim to walk in God’s truth while secretly clinging to past sins or selfish habits. Paul urges us to cast off the works of darkness and let us put on the armor of light.

In practice, this means, would I do this if Christ were right beside me? Anything we’d hide from his pure gaze selfish dishonesty, lust, greed must be laid aside. Though we won’t be perfect this side of the veil, a sincere heart striving for honesty and integrity and trying to be holy, Brother Comey keeps our conscience clear before God and others. Acts 24:16 Brother Larry McClellan taught me a long time ago, we will never be perfect this side of the veil, but we should have a perfect intention. Right, Brother Larry?

Thank you. Put on the Armor of Light. Once we’ve removed darkness, we need to clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 13:14 Paul calls this the armor of light, encompassing truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and God’s word. Read that in Ephesians 6:13 17 Ephesians 6,13 17 in simple terms, we practice honesty, live by Christ’s righteousness, stand in the Gospel’s peace, trust God’s promises to deflect doubt, hold fast to the hope of salvation, and wield Scripture to guide our choices. Think about this each and every day. By daily relying on Christ’s character rather than our own strength, we can stand firm against temptation and errors, especially now, as challenges grow fiercer and fiercer in our lives. Seek a closer walk with God each and every day.

Walking in the light means walking with the one who is light. We draw near to him through prayer, praise, Scripture, study and quiet reflection. As Moses face shone after meeting God, Exodus 34, 29 and 30 Exodus 34:29, 30 so our character, our face, needs to radiate when we spend time in his presence. If we neglect prayer, if we neglect fellowship, study, and so forth, whether through grudging attitudes or distractions, we let shadows creep in. By recommitting to heartfelt devotion, self examination and prompt service, we keep our lamp trimmed and burning.

Remember, I need thee every hour, for he alone supplies the enduring light. John 15:4 5 John 15:4 5 practice love in all things. He who loves his brother abides in the light.

Love is the hallmark of living in God’s light, as Christ also has loved us. Ephesians 5:2 when we show kindness, patience, forgiveness, humility and genuine concern for others spiritual welfare, our light shines the brightest. Love is the oil that keeps our lamp burning and unites us as children of light.

Bitterness or envy only clouds that light. So we intentionally cultivate empathy, service, and the Spirit’s fruits. Embodying love isn’t just knowledge. It is the living essence of truth and of God. Shine outward.

Be a witness. Our light isn’t meant to hide. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:16 by living honestly, by living kindly and with hopeful confidence, we stand out in a dark world, shining as lights of the world. Every act of service, every gentle word becomes an open letter about God’s grace. We also share the gospel directly. You are my witnesses. Isaiah 43:10 Isaiah 43:10 telling others about God’s love, the ransom paid by Christ and the coming kingdom.

In doing so, our own light grows stronger. A lamp shines far brighter when it pours out its oil. I’ve shared this before and I just. I really appreciate it. Very simple.

A young man stands on a box every day, preaches about God’s kingdom, God’s love, and what it needs to be a child of light. Every day. Every day he’s out there preaching, talking. Anyone that will listen to him. His friends come to him one day and they say, you know, we don’t see much.

No one’s listening to you. No one’s following you. No one’s coming home or talk, you know, calling you on the phone, you know. He said, why do you do it? And he said, I used to do it to try to change them.

Now I do it so they don’t change me.

Stay awake and be watchful Walking in the light requires spiritual alertness. It is high time to awake out of sleep.

Even devouted brethren can become drowsy. If life’s anxieties or worldly pleasures dull our zeal, we must ask ourselves, are we still passionate about the truth and our Lord and Savior? Are we children of light rising early to serve, or have we hit the snooze button? Paul warns, let us not sleep as others do, for we are children of the day. By keeping an eye on world events like Brother Len talked about yesterday.

In light of prophecy and remembering Jesus, call watch mark 1337 we avoid surprise and stand ready to pray when temptation comes. As we walk circumspectly, redeeming the time, we prove that we truly believe what we see and not see what we believe.

We began by contrasting darkness, ignorance, sin, despair with light, truth, holiness, love and life from God. We rejoice that he calls us children of light, enlightened now by his word and spirit, destined for more the full day of Christ’s kingdom. We also explored practical steps to glow more brightly. As we strive to walk in God’s light. We need never feel alone.

The LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light. Isaiah 60, verse 19 Isaiah 60, verse 19 he himself guides each step. We also share fellowship with children of the light around the world, from Canada to the U.S. poland, Nigeria, Kenya, Romania, Moldova. The list goes on, and all of you spend time with them.

You zoom with them. You meet with them when the path seems steep or lonely. Remember his promise. I am with you always, even unto the end of the age. Matthew 28:20 by faith His radiant presence is ours today.

Soon it will be glorious sight.

From Brother Russell onward, Bible students have delighted in walking in the increasing light of truth. Proverbs 4:18 Proverbs 4:18 we stand on the shoulders of those who left darkness behind and followed the Lamb into ever brighter truth. Now it is our turn. Let us echo Isaiah’s call. O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the Lord.

Isaiah 2:5 Isaiah 2:5 Though the world around us can be very dark at times, the darkness is past and the true light now shineth. First John 2:8 Therefore we walk boldly and joyfully, knowing that the LORD shall arise upon thee and his glory shall be seen upon thee as well. Isaiah 60, verse 2 Isaiah 62 the light we carry is not our own, but a reflection of Christ himself. He has promised that one day we will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.

What a blessed hope and a blessed promise. Because we live in unchanging love, the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning, our joy should be evident. Not a superficial cheer, but a deep gladness grounded in God’s promises. Even a simple song like Shiny Happy People can remind us that genuine joy is contagious. When our faces reflect calmness in adversity and kindness amid chaos, we testify, we show, that we walk in the light of life.

Matthew 5:16 Beloved brothers and sisters, let us joyfully, joyfully walk as children of light, keeping our lamps trimmed and our hearts encouraged. Though the darkness around us may seem to gather, we need not fear, for the night is nearly over in only a little while. Then comes the perfect day. As we walk in God’s presence, may our lives radiate the deep joy and steadfast peace that comes from his unbroken light. Remember that the God of light is with us now and will always be with us.

Though we once walked in darkness, his mercy has made us light in the Lord. Ephesians 5:8 May we resolve to remain faithful children of the light, boldly, humbly and joyfully, until that morning dawns and every shadow flees away. The path of the just is as the shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Proverbs 4:18 Let us then shine ever brighter as we draw near to that promised day when the knowledge of the Lord fills the earth, as the water waters cover the sea. In love let us serve one another, speak truth with courage, and reflect the character of our Lord Jesus Christ, who truly is the light of the world.

Amen.

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