»This dark world must see evidence of Light in His children if they are ever going to know the true Light.
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- "...I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me." (Acts 26:17-18 NKJV)
- "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house." (Matthew 5:14-15 NKJV)
- Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest. I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation. (Psalm 40:7-10 KJV)
- For so the Lord has commanded us: 'I have set you as a light to the Gentiles, that you should be for salvation to the ends of the earth.' (Acts 13:47 NKJV)
- For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:5-6 KJV)
- But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. (1 Peter 2:9-10 NKJV)
- The first part of the commission above is "...to open their eyes, in order to turn them..."
- If we have "seen the light", it is our duty to shine for the glory of God, and to share the Light with blind souls.
- Marching in step with the Holy Spirit, and the Living Word of God, it is our task to testify in word, and demonstrate in deed, that God is still on the throne, and that man is ultimately accountable to Him. The world must see "what right looks like".
- The greatest thing a human soul ever does in the world is to see something, and tell what it saw in a plain way. Hundreds of people can talk for one who can think, but thousands can think for one who can see. To see clearly is poetry, prophecy, and religion, all in one. -- John Ruskin
- Don't curse the darkness - light a candle. -- Anonymous Chinese proverb.
The Christian church has a profound mission - to illuminate the world with the transformative power of God's light. The concept of illumination is intricately woven throughout the Bible, with numerous verses emphasizing the role of believers as bearers of light. The world we live in is filled with darkness - spiritual darkness, moral darkness, and the darkness of despair and hopelessness. As believers, we are called to be agents of illumination, bringing the light of God's truth, love, and salvation into the midst of this darkness.
Just as Paul was commissioned to open the eyes of the blind, we are called to engage with those around us, helping them see the reality of God's grace and the path to redemption. This requires a genuine love for people, a willingness to listen, and a compassionate heart that seeks to understand their struggles and challenges. We are called to be a beacon of hope, offering a lifeline to those who are lost and seeking meaning and purpose.
The metaphor of a city on a hill reminds us that our light should not be hidden or confined within the walls of the church. Rather, it should shine brightly for all to see, illuminating the world around us. Our lives should reflect the character of Christ, radiating His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. By doing so, we become living testimonies to the transforming power of the gospel.
Moreover, our mission is not limited to personal transformation; it extends to the proclamation of God's righteousness and salvation. Just as the psalmist declared God's faithfulness and salvation, we are called to boldly proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Our words and actions should reflect the truth of the gospel, testifying to the redemptive work of Christ and inviting others to experience His saving grace.
The mission of the church transcends boundaries and reaches to the ends of the earth. We are called to be a light to the Gentiles, extending God's love and salvation to people of all nations and cultures. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, our mission has never been more relevant or urgent. We have the opportunity to engage with diverse communities, break down barriers, and share the transformative message of Christ's love with people from all walks of life.
As we fulfill our mission, we must remember that it is not about promoting ourselves or our own agendas. It is about exalting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Our focus should be on Him, for He is the source of light and life. We are called to humbly serve as His ambassadors, reflecting His glory and pointing others to Him. We are to preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, proclaiming His truth and His kingdom.
In conclusion, the mission of the Christian church is a sacred calling, entrusted to us by God Himself. It is a call to be light-bearers in a darkened world, offering hope, love, and redemption to those who are in need. May we embrace this mission with fervor, recognizing the immense privilege and responsibility we have been given. Let us live out our faith with authenticity, compassion, and boldness, knowing that through our lives and proclamation, we have the power to illuminate the lives of others and lead them into the marvelous light of God's love and grace.
Next: Mission » Salvation
