(UPCOMING MESSAGE) (2026 Jesus’ “I Am” Series #2) - "I am the Light of the World"

“I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD”

John 7:53–8:20 (ESV Bible Verses)

Key Verse: 8:12, Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

1. Observe the dramatic scene in verses 2–6a. Where is Jesus, what is he doing, and who interrupts him? According to the text, what is the hidden trap behind this question about the Law of Moses? Look at verses 6b–8; how does Jesus’ physical action and statement dismantle their trap? What can we learn here about handling judgmentalism?
2. Analyze verses 9–11 carefully. Who is left standing alone after Jesus speaks? Note the order of Jesus’ words to the woman; does he declare no condemnation before or after he commands her to leave her life of sin? Why is this point vital? Likewise, how does receiving his full grace empower us to actually change?
3. Read verse 12; keep in mind that during this Feast the people were to remember the pillar of fire leading them in the wilderness. What does Jesus say we need to do to avoid walking in darkness? How does this call relate to his words to the woman? How might you be trying to figure out your way out of darkness instead of following Jesus?
4. Look briefly at the mention of “light” throughout John’s Gospel: 1:4–5,9; 3:19–21; 9:1–5; 11:9–10; 12:35–36,46. What does light do to hidden things? Why do we need to know that it exposes truth and is not just a warm, comforting feeling? How has the light of Christ exposed things in your life that you used to try to keep hidden?
5. In verses 13–19 the Pharisees challenge Jesus’ testimony as legally invalid. How does he defend the truth of his identity? Count how often he mentions “the Father” in this defense; how did this give him true security? When you are scrutinized, how can you have confidence in your relationship with the Father instead of defending your ego?
6. Review the contrast between the accusers who walked away in darkness and the condemned woman who stood in the light of grace. What does it mean to “have the light of life” and walk in that light in your daily life?