Philippians 2:14-16

Introduction:

1. The widespread moral decline in our culture has led many to believe that the world is worse than ever, and Christianity is powerless in this darkness.

2. This lesson seeks to boost our courage as we navigate our changing culture, so that our lights shine brighter rather than being dimmed.

Discussion:

I. Not Surprised By The Darkness

A. That we live in a dark world is a common NT theme.

B. The world has always loved darkness (John 3:19-21; 15:18-20).

C. The god of this world blinds them to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of Christ (2 Corinthians 4:3-4).

D. Paul and Peter both assume the world is dark (Philippians 2:15; 2 Peter 1:19).

E. We must view this darkness as common on earth (1 Corinthians 10:13), abhor it altogether (Romans 12:9), and not lose heart (2 Corinthians 1:8-10; 2 Peter 2:9).

II. Is The World Worse Than Ever?

A. I too am disturbed by the moral decline in the western world.

B. However, the western world is not the world.

C. While the church declines in the US, Europe, Canada, etc., it is growing rapidly in African, Indian, South American, and many Asian countries.

D. Human history also denies the idea that the world is at its darkest:

1. In Genesis 6, there was a total of 8 godly people on earth.

2. Slavery was a widespread institution until ca. 150-200 years ago.

3. Child sacrifice was common in antiquity (Deuteronomy 12:31; Jeremiah 7:30-31).

4. Homosexuality was rampant in ancient times (Romans 1:26-27).

5. Abortion was rare due to maternal risk; unwanted babies were exposed.

E. In short, the world is not at its darkest today, so we must not overstate it.

III. Light Shines Brightest in Dark Places

A. Jesus’ description of His disciples as the light of the world and a city on a hill point to the expectation of sharp contrast (Matthew 5:14-16).

B. The darker the world around us, the sharper that contrast becomes.

Conclusion:

1. While we abhor evil (Romans 12:9) and pray for peaceful conditions (1 Timothy 2:1-4), we must embrace the spirit of power God has given us (2 Timothy 1:7).

2. Then we will willingly suffer for the gospel without shame (2 Timohy 1:8).

3. Rather than letting the darkness of our world dim the gospel we have been given, let us use it to shine our lights ever brighter.