Matthew 4:12-17

Introduction:

1. We are all ignorant of many things, most of which are of little consequence, but at times it can be harmful or deadly (medicine, gravity, nutrition, traffic laws, etc.).

2. The danger of ignorance is never more pronounced than in God’s will for humanity.

3. Many remain dead in sin because of ignorance (Romans 1:18; Ephesians 2:1-3; 4:17-19).

Discussion:

I. Ignorance About God

A. This designation addresses various types of irreligious lost people who do not believe in the God of heaven: atheists, agnostics, etc.

B. This is most akin to the New Testament usage of the term Gentiles for unbelievers (Romans 1:18-25; 1 Corinthians 2:6-9; Ephesians 4:17-20).

II. Ignorance About God’s Will

A. This designation addresses various types of religious lost people who have some concept of the God of heaven but are ignorant of His true nature and/or will.

B. The pagan philosophers of Paul’s day were such (Acts 17:16-34, esp. 22-23).

C. The Jews who rejected Jesus, though they knew the true God, rejected His will for their own (Luke 20:9-18; Acts 4:1-12; Romans 10:3-4).

D. In both cases, ignorance impedes conversion (Acts 17:30-31; Romans 10:1-2).

III. Light Has Dawned

A. Often the Bible uses darkness to describe ignorance (Matthew 4:16; Ephesians 4:18).

B. In Jesus, light dawned on those who once sat in darkness (Matthew 4:12-16; Luke 1:76-79; John 1:4-5; 3:16-21; 8:12; 9:5; Ephesians 4:20-24; 2 Peter 1:17-21).

C. God’s word/Word is the lamp to our feet, the light to our path (Psalms 119:105).

Conclusion:

1. All who remain in ignorance of God and His will are sure to perish (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9).

2. We must spread the gospel so it may “…open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light…that they may receive forgiveness of sins…” (Acts 26:18).

Further Food for Thought

1. How can we motivate more people to seriously consider the Lord’s word in their life?

2. How important is building relationships with people for success in this effort?

3. Do you ever struggle to create such relationships with those outside of Christ?