Main Text: Matthew 5:13-16
Memory Verse: You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden – Matthew 5:14
Introduction
The theme of the Church of Pentecost this year is I am an Example of Christ in My Generation. In our main text, Jesus admonishes us to be agents of His goodness so the wickedness in the world would not triumph. The scripture says we are the light of the world, and as a city on a hill cannot be hidden, so must our Christian virtues be clear to all. Jesus identifies Himself as the light of the world and He expects us to reflect His character by the way we live. This is what He means when He says we should let our light so shine before men. If we put a lamp on a stand to shine, it dispels darkness. Accordingly, one cannot live a sinful life and shine for others to see. In our study today, we will learn how we can shine as lights.
Questions For Discussion
- Who are the light of the world? Verse 14
- What does it mean to be light of the world?
- Why should we let our lives shine before men?
- To a large extend, our lives as Christians are not imparting our nation. Discuss.
- In what ways can our lights as Christians shine before men?
Conclusion
One goal of the kingdom of God is righteousness. God demands righteousness because He is righteous. One cannot enter the kingdom of God and ignore righteous living. The Sermon on the Mount recommends values and behaviours for members of the Kingdom and encourages us to let our light shine before men. It is sad, however, that though Ghana is usually seen as a Christian nation the impact of Christians in the nation has not been felt as expected. We need to show a life of integrity at home, in business, in politics, in our offices and wherever we find ourselves as Christians. It is possible for us to be good examples of Jesus. This can be done by practising what He has taught us.