The Bible employs various symbols to illustrate the Word of God. The word “light” is found 263 times in the Bible (ASV 1901). It is used literally, as when God said, “Let there be light: and there was light” (Genesis 1:3). An example of figurative usage is when our Lord declared, “When I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:5). Literal light possesses some qualities that can help explain benefits of the Word of God.
Light Dispels Darkness
In a series of rhetorical questions, Paul asked, “[W]hat fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? or what communion hath light and darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14). The Messianic prophet pronounced “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness” (Isaiah 5:20). Jesus came bringing the light of truth (John 1:17). “And the light shineth in the darkness; and the darkness apprehended it not” (John 1:5). That is, the darkness was not able to overpower the light of truth. Contrary to several mystic religions, which assert the balance of good and evil forces, truth ultimately overpowers darkness. In a world of conflicting beliefs, God’s Word can dispel error.
Light Makes for Clear Viewing
How many of you recall a portion of the airline safety briefings? “In the unlikely event of loss in cabin power, emergency aisle lighting will indicate the exit route.” God’s Word provides clarity to the path of righteousness. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). “O Jehovah, I know that the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jeremiah 10:23). Mankind has continually demonstrated his inability to chart his own beneficial course. In fact, when we try, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12).
Light Is Pleasant
Darkness is dreary. “The people that sat in darkness saw a great light” (Matthew 4:16) when Jesus came to their area. The Gospel light (of truth) is liberating. Paul spoke of “the light of the gospel” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Those who obey the Gospel (2 Thessalonians 1:8) become “sons of light” (1 Thessalonians 5:5).
