Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionIn the biblical narrative, light is often used as a symbol of divine presence, guidance, and revelation. Beyond its natural occurrence, the Bible records several instances where light is manifested in extraordinary or miraculous ways, serving as a testament to God's power and glory. These instances are significant in understanding the nature of God and His interaction with humanity. Creation of Light The first extraordinary instance of light is found in the creation account. Genesis 1:3 states, "And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." This miraculous event marks the beginning of creation, where God, by His word, brings forth light, separating it from darkness. This act underscores God's sovereignty and the foundational role of light in the created order. The Burning Bush In Exodus 3:2, Moses encounters the miraculous light of the burning bush: "There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire, it did not burn up." This extraordinary light signifies God's holy presence and serves as a pivotal moment in Moses' calling to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The Pillar of Fire During the Exodus, God provides guidance to the Israelites through a miraculous pillar of fire. Exodus 13:21 records, "And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to guide their way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night." This extraordinary light not only guides but also protects the Israelites, demonstrating God's continual presence and care. The Transfiguration In the New Testament, the Transfiguration of Jesus is marked by a miraculous display of light. Matthew 17:2 describes, "There He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light." This event reveals the divine nature of Christ and affirms His identity as the Son of God, witnessed by Peter, James, and John. The Conversion of Saul The conversion of Saul (later Paul) is another instance of miraculous light. Acts 9:3-4 recounts, "As Saul drew near to Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?'" This extraordinary light signifies a divine encounter that transforms Saul's life and mission, highlighting the power of God's intervention. The New Jerusalem In the eschatological vision of the New Jerusalem, light is depicted in a miraculous and eternal form. Revelation 21:23 states, "The city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp." This imagery emphasizes the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with His people, where His glory provides perpetual illumination. Conclusion Throughout Scripture, extraordinary or miraculous light serves as a powerful symbol of God's presence, guidance, and revelation. These instances not only demonstrate God's power but also His desire to communicate and establish a relationship with humanity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 14:20And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 78:14 Acts 9:3 Acts 12:7 Library Smith -- Assurance in God The Night of Miracles on the Lake of Gennesaret A Path in the Sea The visit and Homage of the Magi, and the Flight into Egypt The Marriage Feast in Cana of Galilee - the Miracle that is a Sign ... Appendix (G). Paul Before Festus and Agrippa. Christ's Birth Introduction to the Present Edition. Appendix (G). On the So-Called "Ammonian Sections" and "Eusebian ... Resources What did Jesus mean when He said, “I am the Light of the World” (John 8:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God is light? | GotQuestions.org How could there be light on the first day of Creation if the sun was not created until the fourth day? | GotQuestions.org Light: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Light: Christ the Source of all Wisdom Light: Communicated to the Body Through the Eye Light: Divided Into: Artificial Light: Divided Into: Extraordinary or Miraculous Light: Figurative and Symbolical Light: Separated from Darkness Light: Sun, Moon, and Stars Appointed to Communicate to the Earth Light: The Glory of the Church Light: The Theory of, Beyond Man's Comprehension Light: Whatever Makes Manifest Related Terms |
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