Light in a Dark Place

We read in 2 Pet 1:19 ...

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

Prophecy serves as a LIGHT that shines in a dark place. The world we live in (this present natural arrangement and system) is in a spiritually darkened state. We need light to recognise where we are and we need light to determine the direction in which we are (and should be) headed. Prophecy provides us with progressive light on God's plan and purpose for mankind. This scripture describes prophecy as a process - it is compared to the physical conditions we experience at the approach of dawn. As the dawn approaches and the sun begins to come up toward the horizon, first we see the promise of a new day, then we see the landscape around us in ever increasing detail. What were previously mere shadows emerge as they really are - objects and features take on their actual form, ratrher than just vague outlines. In a similar way, as we see the progressive fulfilment of God's Word as time moves forward, the details become ever more clearer. We start with nothing more than a glimpse, then in the increasing light of God's Word we gain a fuller picture. Paul wrote concerning this progressive revelation ...

1 Cor 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

In the preceding scripture there is a contrast on conditions NOW and THEN; NOW is the PRESENT, and THEN describes the FUTURE. At present we only see (as it were) through a glass darkly (vaguely, in obscurity). We see an outline; the merest glimpse of reality, but the details are not yet fully revealed. However THEN, i.e. as the light arises to its fulfness, we see the actual substance. THEN ultimately relates to the return of JESUS CHRIST, who is THE LIGHT OF THIS WORLD (John 8:12, John 9:5). He is the bright and morning Star - THE DAY STAR (Rev 22:16). His presence illuminates all things, bringing everything to light as it really is.

NOW we know only IN PART; we have a partial, incomplete knowledge.

1 Cor 13:9-10 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

Our understanding of prophecy is also partial. But THEN we shall KNOW - our knowledge shall be completed. The Apostle Paul wrote of his desire to KNOW the power of His (i.e. Christ's) resurrection ...

Phil 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

Just as light is essential to our physical lives and well-being. The need to take heed of the sure Word of Prophecy is essential to our Spiritual standing with God. The Spiritual is the ultimate life and reality, for our natural lives are temporal - this life will pass away.