S03-04 Bible for adults ‘Adult sermon’ Page 1 of 11 © Scripture Union 2005

Key feature of the Feast of Tabernacles Four huge lamps In the temple’s court of women To light up the celebrations Their glow could be seen from all around ‘I am the light of the world…’

Jesus’ stupendous claim ‘I am the light of the world, Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12). ‘I am the light of the world…’

Some pointed to the light, (eg, John the Baptist, 1:6–9) Light that illuminates God and his purposes. His reason for being in the world (9:39). No wonder the Pharisees were perplexed (9:15,19,26)! Jesus claimed to be the light:

‘I am the light of the world…’ It’s valid to judge Jesus’ claims (7:24). His relationship with God is key (8:16,18,19). His authority hinges on his knowing the start and finish of his journey (8:14 cf 5:36, 13:1)

‘I am the light of the world…’ ‘A little candle can dispel a roomful of darkness and not be dimmed by it. Light and darkness are opposites, but they are not opposites of equal power.’ (F F Bruce) Light that enables life’ equals true light of the Word that reflects God’s glory (1:9,14).

Jesus offers God’s perspective: In the midst of the darkness of injustice, falsehood and hatred. This is God’s work. The blind man witnessed to this physically and spiritually. ‘I am the light of the world…’

The festival’s lamps shone over Jerusalem But Jesus claimed to be light for the world ‘Enlightened living’ in Christ (9:39) is available for all people in all of life.

‘I am the light of the world…’ When we expose ourselves to the light of Christ: … We will reflect the work of God (9:3). … The results will be: Worship (9:38) Witness (Matthew 5:14–16).

‘I am the light of the world…’ – Jesus ‘You are the light of the world…’ – Jesus What does this mean for us? ‘I am the light of the world…’