Light Has Dawned

by Pastor Mark
December 25, 2025

Christmas is here

A Blessed and Merry Christmas! As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we also remember how light had dawned in a world of darkness. He came to give light and understanding to many who were trapped in the darkness of sin, the world and Satan. The prophecy of Isaiah was fulfilled, “The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” (Matthew 4:16) Only the light of the Lord Jesus can prevail against such spiritual darkness. By studying the darkness that we see in the life of Zacharias, we recognise how powerful and dangerous it is.

The power of darkness

1. The pervasiveness of darkness

  1. A vital lesson learnt was how pervasive darkness is.
  2. It will encroach and pervade all areas of our lives.
  3. Zacharias was given wonderful news that Elizabeth would be with child (Luke 1).
  4. Instead of rejoicing, he doubted and darkness pervaded him.
  5. Spiritual darkness clouded the heart and mind of Zacharias so that he was not able to respond.

2. Light is covered by the darkness of sin

  1. God announced a series of woes against Israel for their sins (Isaiah 5:8–30).
  2. We see how the darkness of sin affected Israel.
  3. Light is darkened…“Behold, darkness and sorrow; and the light is darkened by the clouds.” (Isaiah 5:30)
  4. Light is covered by the cloud of the darkness of sin.
  5. The darkness is working to prevent us from seeing the light.

The power of the light of God

1. Progressive power

  1. The power of the light of God had to work in Zacharias progressively (Luke 1).
  2. The angel of the Lord chastised him for his unbelief and he became mute for 9 months.
  3. He would be relieved of all his duties, as he was unable to speak and offer sacrifices.
  4. Zacharias would have taken time to read the Scriptures, especially the prophecies concerning his son as the forerunner and about Christ, the Messiah (Isaiah 40, 42).
  5. The progressive power of the Lord would renew his mind, heart and spirit…to replace unbelief and doubts with faith and hope.
  6. There came cleansing and restoration until he became a partaker of holiness (Hebrews 12:10).

2. The filling of the Spirit of God

The Spirit of God filled Zacharias and enlightened him (Luke 1:67; Ephesians 1:17,18). This was the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, giving him knowledge and understanding. He was given wisdom, insights and inspiration concerning the Messiah and his newborn son. This was the Spirit of prophecy revealing the plan of God to him.

We, too, need the Spirit of God to enlighten us and dispel the darkness in our lives. Let us be challenged to seek the filling of the Holy Spirit in our lives and ministries. Wishing all a Spirit-filled Christmas as we celebrate the birth of the Dayspring who came to bring light into this world of darkness.

Back to Article Listing

More Articles

View more