Keep it in the Light

Topics: children of light

I. Do Not Be Deceived!

1. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore, do not be partakers with them (Ephesians 5:6-7).

2. Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You (Psalm 119:11).

3. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves (James 1:22).

4. In which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience (Ephesians 2:2) (see also Romans 6:1-2 and Isaiah 48:1)

II. Walk As Children of Light!

1. For you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord (Ephesians 5:8-10).
2. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
3. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).

III. Expose the Unfruitful Works of Darkness!

1. Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. For this reason, it says, "Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you" (Ephesians 5:11-14)./p>
2. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).
3. Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye, and behold, the log is in your own eye?" "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye" (Matthew 7:3-5)

Sermon by Dane Nissen, October 26th, 2025.

Life Group Flow and Discussion Questions

Keep it in the Light

An important Guideline of Life Groups: What we believe impacts how we behave! Discuss the biblical teaching of how the Love of the Father and the Spirit inside us should produce a life that bears fruit.

Getting Started:

1. Verse 8 says believers were "once in darkness" but "now are light in the Lord." How has your life changed since coming to faith?
2. In what ways do you tend to drift back toward the "darkness" and sin?
3. How does the light you now have as a Christian influence your interactions with others?

Discussing Truths:

1. How can we "expose" darkness with the right balance of boldness and grace, without becoming harsh or judgmental?
2. What is the connection between walking in the light and walking wisely, making the most of your time (v. 15-16)?
3. How does having a regular "quiet time" with God help us make wiser choices and avoid foolish ones

Now What? Application:

1. What does it mean to you to be a "child of light" and how can you remain grounded in this new identity?
2. How does understanding the gospel of Ephesians 2 (moving from death to life) connect with Ephesians 5 (moving from darkness to light)?
3. How does our new identity in Christ equip us to live a life that is different from the world's standards?