We're in the midst of a new series - studying the seven "I AM" statements in the Gospel of John.
This week's topic: I Am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
OT Background: Exodus 13:17-22; Isaiah 42:6 and 49:6
NT Fulfillment: John 8:12-30. See also John 1:4-5; 3:19-21; 9:5; 12:35-36).
· Were you scared of the dark as a kid?
· Do you keep flashlights and candles in your house?
· How is light useful? What can we do in the light that we can’t do in the dark?
· What are things that are intentionally done in the dark? Why do you think that these things want to remain in the darkness?
Synopsis: Light is one of the most prominent themes in John’s Gospel. The world is lost and hopeless in darkness (John 1:4-14). The darkness cannot change its condition. Light must enter and invade. One cannot see or lead others in the darkness, so light is necessary to guide us and walk forward. John picks up light from a rich OT heritage and shows how Jesus is the light.
READ Isaiah 60:1-3, John 1:4-9, John 8:12, and 1 John 1:5-7.
Based upon the fact that in John 8:12 Jesus ties the idea of being the light with his people following after him in the light, the most likely OT background in mind here is the light of God’s presence leading Israel in the wilderness via the pillar of fire (Exodus 13-14). Just as the Israelites were led by the pillar of fire (light) in the exodus and saved from the Egyptians as they crossed the Red Sea, so also Jesus says those who follow him (light) will have life.
· Describe what Jesus being the light of the world means to you.
· What kind of fear do those in the darkness have, when revealed by Jesus and his light?
READ Matthew 11:28-29.
· How does Jesus respond to people who come to Him?
· Why is understanding Jesus’ love and grace so vital to experiencing life in His light without fear?
· How can Jesus’ light in our lives be transformative?
· How can we be the light of the world? How does you understanding of Jesus’ light, love, and grace help you to be a light for the world?
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