INTRODUCTION

Scripture reading: John 8:12

Today, we dive into the second "I Am" statement of Jesus found in the Gospel of John.  

In John 8:12, Jesus declares, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." This statement, spoken during the Feast of Tabernacles, carries profound implications for our understanding of Jesus' identity and our spiritual journey.

Jesus made this declaration in the context of the Feast of Tabernacles, a celebration that included the illumination of the temple courts with large lampstands to symbolize God's guidance and provision during the wilderness journey. It was in this setting that Jesus boldly proclaimed Himself as the Light of the World.

DISCUSSIONS

Let us examine several verses that represent God as light and discuss how these verses relate to our faith journey.

Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet,
   a light on my path.

Light symbolizes guidance, truth, and revelation. In Scripture, light often represents God's presence and His Word, illuminating the path for His people.

John 1:4-5
⁴ In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. ⁵ The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

Light also signifies life and hope. It dispels darkness, brings warmth, and reveals beauty. Jesus, as the Light of the World, brings spiritual life and offers hope to a darkened world.

Discussion Question 1:
What does the imagery of light mean to you personally? How does it relate to your understanding of God?

John 1:9
The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.

Just as physical light dispels darkness, Jesus, the Light of the World, dispels the darkness of sin, ignorance, and despair. Through Him, we find clarity and purpose in life.

John 14:6
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.  

Jesus illuminates the truth about God's love, grace, and salvation. In a world often clouded by falsehood and confusion, He reveals the way to eternal life and relationship with God.

Discussion Question 2:
How has encountering Jesus as the Light of the World impacted your life? In what ways has He brought clarity and truth into your journey of faith?

John 12:46
I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.

To benefit from the light, we must follow Jesus. Following Him means aligning our lives with His teachings and example, allowing His light to guide our thoughts, actions, and relationships.

Matthew 5:14-16
¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His light to others. We become bearers of His truth and love, shining brightly in a world that desperately needs the hope and redemption found in Christ .

Discussion Question 3:
In what ways can you actively follow Jesus as the Light of the World in your daily life? How can you shine His light to those around you?

How you can actively live in the light of Jesus:
- Regularly read and meditate on Scripture to deepen your understanding of Jesus' teachings.
- Seek God's guidance and wisdom in prayer, allowing His light to illuminate your decisions and desires.
- Look for opportunities to serve others and demonstrate the love of Christ, letting your light shine before others (Matthew 5:16).

CONCLUSION

As we conclude our study, let's remember that Jesus, as the Light of the World, offers us guidance, truth, and eternal life. He invites us to walk in His light, to follow Him faithfully, and to shine His light brightly to those around us.

Individual Reflection

1. Take a moment to reflect on how Jesus, as the Light of the World, impacted your understanding of God and your relationship with Him? How has it brought clarity and hope into your life.

2. What practical steps will you take to follow Jesus more closely and to shine His light in your sphere of influence.

Closing Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for revealing Jesus to us as the Light of the World. We are grateful for His guidance, truth, and the hope He brings into our lives. Help us, Lord, to follow Jesus faithfully, to walk in His light, and to reflect His light to others.

May Your Spirit empower us to live as beacons of hope and truth in a world that desperately needs You. Guide us as we seek to glorify You in all that we do.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen."