Anchor Verses:

John 21:15-23, Matthew 5:14-16

Focus Statement:

As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His light into a dark world—not by force or show, but with gentleness, love, and visible faithfulness that guides others toward Him.

Introduction: The Tables

  • The One – Personal relationship with Jesus; the foundation of discipleship
  • The Few – Close community where we practice the “one anothers”
  • The Many – The gathered church, a house of prayer
  • The Kingdom – Our mission to be the hands and feet of Jesus

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Blinded by the Light

  • Like walking from light into darkness or darkness into light, spiritual clarity takes adjustment
  • The light of Christ can feel blinding to those still in darkness
  • We must remember our own past blindness and show empathy
  • Don’t mock or shame those still searching—shepherd them toward the light
  • Illustration:
  • Dim light (from a speaker) keeps you awake but doesn’t help you see
  • Dim spiritual light = partial truth or comfort without clarity

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Feed My Sheep

  • Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me?” three times—mirroring Peter’s three denials
  • With each affirmation, Jesus responds: “Feed my sheep”
  • Loving Jesus leads to caring for His people
  • When Peter compares himself to others, Jesus replies: “What is it to you? You follow me.”
  • The call is personal and obedient, not comparative

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The Light of the World

  • “You are the salt of the earth… the light of the world”
  • Our lives should reflect Jesus in such a way that others see and glorify God
  • Illustration:
  • Waking up gently vs. being jolted awake—light should be gentle, not aggressive
  • We are not called to flash lights in people’s eyes, but to illuminate the path
  • Let your good deeds be visible: not to show off, but to encourage and point to God

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Sermon Questions

  • When have you tried to help someone in darkness but ended up being more of a “flashlight to the eyes” than a gentle guide? How can you grow in gentleness and patience as you reflect the light of Christ?
  • Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” three times and then told him to feed His sheep. What does it look like for you to “feed His sheep” in your current context?
  • Are there areas in your life where you are content with dim light—just enough to not feel lost, but not enough to truly see? How might God be calling you into fuller clarity and faithfulness?

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