Normal Light
Pastor Ryan Hurd
Part of Just Act Normal—Following Christ's Commands
October 30, 2022

Deep Darkness

For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people… —Isaiah 60:2a (NKJV)

I think there is something deep down in each of us that senses this darkness and feels discontent.

And something within us senses the urge to act. To do something. But how?

Naturally Unnatural Tendency

Start reminding ourselves of all of our shortcomings and all the reasons why God could never use someone like us.
Assume the best route is to stay in the shadows, don’t stick your head up, and hope the storm eventually passes.

Glaring Reality — When God’s people remain silent, everyone loses.

WHO!? — if not the Church — will address these issues?

Salt and Light

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. —Matthew 5:13–16 CSB

Christians are called to permeate society as agents of redemption — this is the normal life of a Christ follower.
Jesus calls His disciples to arrest corruption and prevent moral decay in their world.

Like lights from a city illuminating the dark countryside or a lamp inside a house providing light for all within it, Jesus commands that His followers let their good works shine before the rest of the world so that others may praise God.

The solution to the darkness all around us — LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE.

The reason Jesus can call us the light of the world, is because of what He has done our behalf!

Christ in you, the hope of glory. —Colossians 1:27b (CSB)

Children of Light

Both metaphors — salt and light — raise important questions about Christian involvement in society.

The night is nearly over, and the day is near; so let us discard the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. —Romans 13:12 CSB

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light— —Ephesians 5:8 CSB

Shining Bright

  1. Share your faith
  2. Be counter-culture
  3. Put the needs of others before your own
  4. Encourage those around you
  5. Pray for those who are hurting / in need
  6. Live at peace
  7. Obey the commands of Christ