You Are.

INTRODUCTION

Words and speeches

The beatitudes

Blessed for what?

YOU ARE—MATTHEW 5:13-16

Jesus the poetic teacher

The Salt of the earth

Exodus 30:35, Mark 9:50

Influence in the world

Faithful in God’s Purposes

The Light of the world

What!?

Cities and Lamps

In the Same Way

OUR LIGHT AND THE GLORY OF CHRIST

Jesus, Bright Shining Sun

John 1:1-5, 9; John 8:12, Colossians 1:27; John 15:1-5

Living by Faith as God’s Blessed People

Galatians 2:20

Community Meditation

Feel

• Do you feel like you ARE the light of the world? How are you currently facing or dealing with your own darkness?
• Do you tend to live like the moon trying to generate its own light? Why does this lead to frustration?

Know

• Read Isaiah 49:1-6. What is God’s purpose and method of bringing his salvation to the ends of the earth? Did God’s people fulfill this purpose in the Old Testament? Read John 8:12-20. Discuss how Jesus fulfills God’s purposes of being the light of the world? Theologically reflect on the relationship of OT Israel, Jesus the Son of God and all Christians as his Kingdom People.
• How might we succeed in being faithful sons and daughters of God whereas so many in the Scriptures fall so short?

Live

• How are you connecting to the light of Christ on a day to day basis? Discuss your practice of reading and meditation on the Scriptures?
• Are you living in a light-less world day to day? How can you connect with God’s people for gracious accountability to seek the Lord.
• Read 1 John 1. What practices do you see here that will help you walk in the light of Christ?