Jesus the Light of the World

31 December 2014

Opening Prayer/Worship

Hymn: What a Friend We Have in Jesus

Theme: The Body of Christ

Topic: Jesus the Light of the World

Reading: Isaiah 61:10-11, 62:1-3

Introduction

One of the remarkable phenomena during Yuletide is the sheer variety and mind-boggling number of lights that are displayed on streets, in homes, offices, churches etc.  It is as if Christmas is a celebration of lights!  This is true because as we remember God’s greatest gift to the world, we reflect that He is the Light of the world.  The fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, brought darkness into the world in the form of sin and disobedience to our Lord and Maker.  God then sent His Light in the person of Christ, to restore the relationship we have with Him.  The Lord did not stop there, but mandated us to let the same light that is in Christ shine through us; that all creation may come to the knowledge and understanding of His amazing grace and love for all in Christ Jesus, the Saviour of the world.  As we enter into 2015, let us allow the light of Christ to shine through us into the lives of people God has put in our lives by being loving and peaceable.  Wishing you God’s grace, peace and blessings for the New Year!

Questions/Discussion

1. How will you describe Christ as the Light of the world?  

John 1:1-18

John 10:1-18

Galatians 4:4-7

2. What are the lessons for us in Luke 2:22-40 regarding Christ as the Light of the world? 

Luke 2:22-40

3. In what ways can we let the light of Christ shine through us?  

Psalm 148:1-14

Matthew 5:13-16

John 15:1-20

Intercession/Worship

Conclusion

As we enter into 2015, let us allow the light of Christ to shine through us into the lives of people God has put in our lives by being loving and peaceable.

Closing Prayer (Collect for First Sunday after Christmas)

Almighty God, you have shed upon us the new light of your incarnate Word. May this light, enkindled in our hearts, shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.