brought to light

No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.

Luke 8:16-17

There are a couple of ways the gospel brings to light what is around us. Primarily, through its consistent preaching, the gospel exposes what is wrong and as light shows us what is right in Jesus. We are reminded of the seriousness of sin, not only in our culture, but in our own hearts first. The gospel always shines on Jesus so we can see what we need most.

That is why churches should carefully construct public worship around the gospel. It isn’t about hip songs, fog machines, stage lighting, “relevant” feel-good sermons, and large crowds. It is however about preaching that Jesus died and rose again to forgive sin and bring the world true life. Only Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. That light must shine and never be hidden in the expensive, confusing veils of relevancy or theatrics.

The preaching of the gospel exposes what is dark in our hearts. It gives unbelievers light in which to repent, believe a Savior, and find forgiveness and eternal life. It gives believers light to continue in repentance and faith and thus follow Jesus as He keeps exposing our need. And it also calls everyone to remember that there is indeed a Day to come where everything is brought to light as Jesus judges this world. All judgment has been given to the Son. He will make what seems hidden (both in this world and in His church) manifest. Secrets WILL BE KNOWN and judged by Him. Your darkest thoughts and secrets will come out. My darkest musings will come to light. And that future light should call all of us in absolute seriousness and the fear of the Lord to live consciously in His light right now!