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  A LIGHT NOT MEANT TO BE HIDDEN
  by David Wilkerson
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Summary: We are the light of the world, and our walk with Christ
determines the intensity of that light, which is meant to shine forth to
the world and glorify God.

Topics: "Authentic Faith", "Being a Light"
Scripture References: Matthew 5:14

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DESCRIPTION
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David Wilkerson emphasizes that believers are not merely reflections of
Christ's light but are the light of the world themselves, with the
brightness of their light directly linked to their relationship with
Him. He warns against spiritual laziness and hypocrisy, highlighting
that true light shines through genuine communion with Christ, not
through self-promotion or judgment of others. Wilkerson reminds us that
our lives are on display for the world to see, and we are called to let
our light shine so that God may be glorified through our good works.

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CONTENT
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Jesus tells us, "Ye are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). His
statement here is about much more than just doing ministry. It extends
beyond teaching, preaching or passing out tracts. Christ tells us very
plainly, "Ye are the light." He's saying, "You are not just a reflection
of the light. You're not a mere conduit. You are the light itself. And
the intensity of your light depends upon the intensity of your walk with
me."

Do you see what the Lord is implying here? The world recognizes those
who walk closely with him. Your neighbors or coworkers may not know
about your daily communion with Christ, your faith in him, your utter
dependence upon him. But they do see the light that shines from your
because of the life you have with him. And as long as nothing hinders
that life, your light will continue to shine in the darkness.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be
hid" (Matthew 5:14). Jesus is saying, "I have put you on exhibition to
the world. People are looking at you, because I've made you a spectacle.
You're a light that is not meant to be hidden."

So, who are these lights set on a hill? And where do we see them? They
are not usually found in the limelight. They aren't among the self-
centered, self-promoting people who live for recognition in this world.
And they are not among those self-important church cliques who pretend
to be holy but gossip, murmur and complain.

Through the years, I've seen many believers who appear godly but in
truth are spiritually lazy. They tell others about their failings and
weaknesses, thinking this makes them humble. Yet they are quick to judge
others. They don't possess the true, giving, loving servant-like spirit
of Christ. On the contrary, the "light" they have is actually darkness.
Jesus says, "If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how
great is that darkness!" (Matthew 6:23). Where there is no life of
Christ, there can be no light for others.

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (5:16). The reason that we
are to let our light shine forth to the world is that God may receive
glory.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/david-wilkerson/a-light-not-meant-to-be-hidden/
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