In the scriptures, we often encounter the profound contrast between light and darkness. From Genesis "in the beginning" and "let there be light" to Revelation and "a new heaven and new earth" with the "new Jerusalem" where "there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light; and they shall reign for ever and ever." Yet, this dichotomy isn't merely about physical illumination, but also can include a deep, spiritual reality that shapes our understanding, actions, and very identity.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, paints a vivid picture of this spiritual enlightenment: "For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:" (Ephesians 5:8). This powerful statement encapsulates three fundamental truths – 1) that we are not merely in darkness, but were darkness itself before encountering the light of Christ, 2) now in Christ we are light, and 3) we are to walk as children of light.
Consider for a moment the implications of this. Prior to our spiritual awakening, we weren't just stumbling in the dark; we were the embodiment of spiritual darkness. Our understanding was clouded, our actions misguided, and our very nature opposed to the light of truth, opposed to Christ. This state of being isn't just about ignorance, but about an active embrace of falsehood and rejection of the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
The Gospel of John further sheds light on this concept: "And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19). Our natural inclination, tainted by sin, is to shy away from the light that exposes our flaws and wrongdoings. Like cockroaches scurrying from sudden brightness, we instinctively retreat from the revealing rays of truth. But the good news of the gospel of the kingdom during the Lord's earthly ministry, as well as, the gospel of grace today is that we don't have to remain in this state. Through Christ, we are not only brought into the light but become light ourselves. This alteration is not a mere change of location but a fundamental shift in our very nature. We are "translated into the kingdom of His dear Son" (Colossians 1:13), moving from a realm of spiritual darkness into one of divine light.
This new identity as "children of light" comes with a responsibility – to walk in a manner consistent with the light. Paul exhorts us to "walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8), emphasizing that our actions should reflect our transformed identity. This walk isn't about sinless perfection, but about spiritual progression – a continual movement towards greater alignment with the light we've received.
What does it mean to walk as children of light? Paul provides some insight: "For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth" (Ephesians 5:9). Our lives should be characterized by these qualities, as the light aids in the growth of the nature of the One who called us out of darkness. This isn't about adhering to a set of rules, but about allowing the light within us to spiritually produce this fruit in our lives. We foster this growth by renewing through hearing, learning, understanding, gaining knowledge, then taking that which has been planted, rooted, and grounded within us, that word of Christ which dwells in us and begin to prove it, use it, and do it.
Moreover, walking in the light involves actively engaging with the world around us. We're called to be "lights in the world" (Philippians 2:15), shining in the midst of a "crooked and perverse nation." This imagery reminds us that our role isn't to retreat from the world, but to influence it through our words, actions, and very presence as if His light as transformed us.
One practical way we manifest this light is through our attitude and demeanor. Paul encourages us to "do all things without murmurings and disputings" (Philippians 2:14). In a world often characterized by negativity and discord, our ability to maintain a positive, grateful attitude can be a powerful testimony to the kingdom of light and the power of Christ in our lives.
Walking in the light also involves a process of continual renewal and growth. Just as plants need light to grow and bear fruit, our spiritual lives require constant exposure to divine truth to flourish. This comes through regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. As we "live by the Spirit," we're encouraged to "walk in the Spirit" (Galatians 5:25), allowing His influence to guide our paths and shape our character.
Importantly, walking in the light doesn't mean we're immune to struggles or temptations. The pull of darkness remains present in our fallen world, and even as believers, we can be influenced by its allure. Paul warns against having "fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness" (Ephesians 5:11), reminding us to be vigilant in our spiritual walk in the midst of this world.
Yet, our role isn't just to avoid darkness, but to actively expose it. As light-bearers, we have the responsibility to "reprove" the works of darkness (Ephesians 5:11). This isn't about condemnation, but about bringing truth to bear on falsehood, allowing the light of Christ to reveal and transform areas of darkness in our own lives and in the world around us.
As we discern these theological truths of darkness and light and the change from darkness to light, we're reminded of the incredible grace that makes it possible. We didn't earn our place in the light, nor can we maintain it through our own efforts. It's a gift, freely given through Christ, that we're called to embrace and live out daily.
In conclusion, our identity as children of light is both a profound privilege and a weighty responsibility. We're invited to continually bask in the light of God's truth, allowing it to transform us from the inside out. As we do so, we become beacons of hope in a world often shrouded in darkness, pointing others to the source of true enlightenment.
May we embrace this calling, walking confidently as children of light, and shining brightly for the glory of the One who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light.
Look Up,
—Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher
thank you Pastor 😊