Sermon on the Mount – You are the Light of the World • Founded in Truth Fellowship

This Bible teaching from Founded in Truth Fellowship, possibly delivered by Matthew Vander Els, centers on the powerful declaration from the Sermon on the Mount: “You are the light of the world” Matthew 5:14. The speaker emphasizes that this isn’t just a passive statement but a call to action for followers of Jesus (Yeshua). The teaching delves into the deeper meaning of this metaphor by connecting it with Old Testament prophecies, particularly from the book of Isaiah, to reveal a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be light in a dark world.

The speaker begins by highlighting the excitement and significance of children in the fellowship learning and responding to the teachings, underscoring the importance of mentorship and the impact of consistently engaging with the Word of God. This sets a tone for understanding the transformative power of these teachings across all ages. To illustrate the concept of standing for truth even in the face of danger, the speaker recounts the story of Oscar Ramirez, a priest in El Salvador who was assassinated for speaking out against the oppressive oligarchy and the violence of both the government and rising guerrilla forces in the lead-up to the El Salvadoran Civil War. Ramirez, like the light being discussed, stood in the middle, advocating for peace and justice, urging all sides to remember their shared humanity and Christian faith. His unwavering commitment, even to the point of sacrificing his life, serves as a powerful example of what it means to be a light that exposes darkness.

Moving back to the Sermon on the Mount, the teaching explains that the “light” Yeshua refers to is symbolic of good deeds and actions. It’s not merely about holding certain beliefs but actively living out those beliefs in a way that impacts others and brings glory to God. These actions, the speaker clarifies, go beyond simple niceties and involve making a real difference in the world, even when it’s risky.

To further illuminate this concept, the teaching draws heavily from the prophet Isaiah. The Hebrew word for light, “or,” is connected to the “Torah” (teachings or law) and the verb “yora” (to teach), suggesting that the light of God is found in His Word and manifested through teaching and living according to it. Isaiah’s prophecies, written during and after the Babylonian exile when Israel was oppressed, speak of a future “new Zion” or “new Jerusalem” where the light of God will radiate outward and impact all nations. This new eschatological temple, situated above all mountains, will be a place where all nations stream to learn God’s ways, leading to justice, the settling of disputes, and the end of war. Military resources will be repurposed for sustenance and peace.

However, the speaker points out that Israel historically failed to fully embody this mission of spreading God’s light and peace due to issues of the heart, succumbing to greed and violence. Because of this, God chose a “servant” to bring forth His promises. This servant, identified as Yeshua, would be the true light of the nations, embodying the covenant and restoring what was lost. The promises of land and rest are reframed in the New Testament by Paul and Peter as inheriting God’s kingdom through Christ.

Isaiah’s prophecies in chapters 42 and 49 further describe the mission of this servant as bringing justice, restoration, and freedom, becoming the light of the nations. The servant isn’t just making a covenant; the servant becomes the covenant. The speaker draws a parallel to God’s intention with Moses to start over with one individual when the nation faltered, highlighting the profound impact a single, dedicated person can have.

The teaching then explores Isaiah chapter 60, which describes the people of the new Zion, initially in darkness, upon whom God’s glory rises. These people, having received the light of the servant, become light bearers themselves, their actions revealing the glory of God to the nations. The oppressors of the past will serve and honor them, bringing restitution and peace, mirroring the principles of the Torah. Ultimately, in this new reality, God Himself will be the everlasting light and glory.

The speaker emphasizes that being the light of the world means engaging in actions that are distinctly different from the ways of the world, actions rooted in the teachings of Yeshua presented in the Sermon on the Mount. It involves standing up for justice and truth, even when it provokes conflict and sets believers apart. The teaching quotes Oscar Ramirez again, highlighting that a true church, gospel, and word of God will challenge sin and injustice within society.

Connecting to Isaiah chapter 61, the teaching discusses the “eternal Jubilee,” a concept of ultimate rest and liberation that evolves throughout the prophets into the promise of God’s kingdom reigning eternally. Yeshua Himself quoted Isaiah 61 in Luke 4:17-20, declaring that this prophecy of liberty for the captives, recovery of sight for the blind, and freedom for the oppressed was being fulfilled “today”. This signifies that the Kingdom of God is not just a future hope but a present reality manifested through the followers of Yeshua, who are now ambassadors of this light and justice.

The speaker concludes by challenging the listeners to actively shine their light, not waiting for a future return of Jesus. Just as salt must be mixed in to have an effect, light must be actively displayed. Followers of Yeshua are called to have their “lamp lit and ready,” walking in the light and not in darkness. The Sermon on the Mount, while demanding, is meant to be lived out by trusting in God and standing firm in His calling, regardless of the risks.

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Application for Everyday Life:

• Actively engage in good deeds: Look for opportunities to show kindness, compassion, and generosity in your daily interactions. This could be as simple as helping someone in need or standing up for someone who is being mistreated.
• Speak out against injustice: Like Oscar Ramirez, do not remain silent in the face of oppression and wrongdoing, even if it is unpopular or carries personal risk.
• Live according to the teachings of Jesus: Study the Sermon on the Mount and other biblical teachings, and strive to embody those principles in your actions and decisions.
• Be a light in your community: Let your actions and character be a testimony to your faith, so that others may see the reality of God through you.
• Embrace the present reality of the Kingdom of God: Recognize that God’s justice and reign are not just future promises but are meant to be manifested in the world now through believers.
• Trust in God’s power and guidance: Living as light in a dark world can be challenging, so rely on God’s strength and wisdom to guide your steps.
• Be distinct from the darkness: Your actions and values should clearly reflect the teachings of Yeshua, setting you apart from those who perpetuate injustice and oppression.