SHINING BRIGHT FOR GOD

DATE: February 9^th, 2025

TOPIC: SHINING BRIGHT FOR GOD

TEXT: Matthew 5:16

AIM:

1. To teach that all believers are called to reflect God’s glory through good works.
2. To teach that shining for God requires intentional living, obedience, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

INTRODUCTION:

In Matthew 5:16, the Lord instructs us to let our light shine before others so that God may be glorified. Light is a powerful metaphor for influence, guidance, and hope. Just as a lamp illuminates a room, Christians are to shine as beacons of God’s love and truth in a dark world. “In the same way” that a light shines from a stand, Christ’s disciples must let their light shine before others by letting their “good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Jesus made it clear that there would be no mistaking the source of a believer’s good works. The believer’s light shines not for himself but to reflect the light back to the Father and so direct people to him.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION:

1. What does it mean to “let your light shine”? (Matthew 5:14-16, John 8:12)
2. How can believers ensure their good works point others to God and not to themselves? (Colossians 3:23-24, 1 Corinthians 10:31)
3. What are some practical ways we can shine for God in our daily lives? (Philippians 2:14-16, Galatians 5:22-23)
4. What challenges hinder Christians from shining brightly, and how can they be overcome? (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 6:10-13)
5. How can the church help believers shine their light more effectively? (Hebrews 10:24-25, Ephesians 4:11-13)

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:

A light that shines for God not only brightens the path for others but also glorifies the Source of that light.

MEMORY VERSE:

Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”