Brother Sparks discusses Isaiah chapter 60, emphasizing the dual interpretation of Old Testament scriptures: historical and spiritual. He highlights the significance of Zion, representing both a physical place and a spiritual state of fullness for believers. The exhortation "Arise, shine, for thy light is come" serves as a call to recognize the transformative power of resurrection. This light, born from deep experiences of resurrection, is vital and effective, enriching both individuals and communities. Brother Sparks stresses that true ministry must stem from personal experiences of resurrection rather than mere intellectual understanding. He encourages believers to embrace their collective identity as part of the body of Christ, sharing in both suffering and the power of resurrection. The effectiveness of this light attracts others, drawing them to the wealth found in Christ. Ultimately, Brother Sparks calls for a deeper understanding of the light that believers possess, urging them to recognize their role in shining this light collectively.
1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. 2 For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. 3 And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.
11 Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought. 12 For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted.
13 The glory of Lebanon shall come unto thee, the fir tree, the pine tree, and the box together, to beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my feet glorious. 14 The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending unto thee; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee, The city of the LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.
19 The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory. 20 Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.
17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,