SHINE THE LIGHT BOLDLY
The metaphor of light was used often in writings of this time.
Note the dichotomy between Jesus’ teaching and use of light as a
metaphor in Verse 26, and Plato’s Republic and use of light in the
allegory of the cave, which posits that the knowledge of truth is
the province of only select philosopher-kings. The Platonic notion
of a caste of philosopher-kings who understood what was true by
virtue of their study was very compatible with the philosophical and
theological teachings among the Jewish leaders of Jesus’ time.
In many ways, the Pharisees embodied Plato’s ideals. They were
certainly philosophers in the true sense of the word. Philo is one
of the Greek words for love, and sophia is Greek for wisdom. Jesus
contradicted this approach by declaring that wisdom based on
understanding and following the law was not the path to salvation,
but rather that salvation could not be earned --- it could only be
received as a result of Christ’s death and resurrection. As such, it
was open not only to the select few, but to all with faith.
The ultimate demonstration of Jesus’ divinity and the full scope
of his mission came through his death and resurrection. In many
ways, Jesus’ words here could not be fully understood at the time;
rather, they required interpretation viewed in the context of his
life, death, and resurrection.
In Verse 27, he tells the disciples that although he has only
obliquely referred to his divinity up till then, they will need to
overtly declare it. The metaphor of light may be understood to show
that the proper time to reveal Jesus’ divinity and mission will come
as surely as the sunrise, but it will not come prematurely.
God, help us to know the light of Christ’s salvation and to
boldly proclaim it.
Ted J. Vlamis
