In the Light, or in the Darkness?

John loved to use the analogy of light and darkness. It is a great way to describe the Christian life, because there is such a contrast between light and darkness. There is either light or darkness, but there can't be both. As soon as light is introduced the darkness is gone. Therefore, in following this analogy, once we have come to know Christ as Lord and Savior, we are no longer in the darkness of sin and Satan. We have the Light, Christ, in us. He will drive out the darkness, so we can see Him and see what we need to do in His will. John gives us several applications of this truth in His books of the Bible. One of those is about love. (I John 2:9) "The one who says he is on the light but hates his brother or sister is in the darkness until now." That is an very absolute statement that assures us of an absolute truth.

Once we are in the Light, we will live differently than those in the darkness. The difference comes from our relationship with Jesus and His powerful presence in our life. We will have His love in us, because He is love. He will make sure we know that we should love everyone, especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. How could we not love them? They belong to Jesus like we do. They are not perfect, but they are having fellowship with Him, too. Therefore, we are in the same family, and we both have His love. That is why we can't hate a brother or sister in Christ, or anyone else, if we are in the light. This is a good test for those who "say" they are in the light. If they have hate in their hearts instead of love, they are in darkness until now. 

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Tomorrow, I intend to read I John 3-5.