Topical Encyclopedia
The title "Children of the Day" is a metaphorical designation used in the New Testament to describe believers in Jesus Christ, emphasizing their identity and conduct in contrast to the darkness of the world. This title underscores the moral and spiritual transformation that occurs in the life of a Christian, highlighting their calling to live in the light of God's truth and righteousness.
Biblical FoundationThe primary scriptural reference for the title "Children of the Day" is found in
1 Thessalonians 5:5, where the Apostle Paul writes, "For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day; we do not belong to the night or to the darkness" . This passage is part of a larger exhortation encouraging believers to remain vigilant and sober, living in anticipation of the Lord's return.
Theological Significance1.
Identity in Christ: The title "Children of the Day" signifies the believer's new identity in Christ. Upon accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, Christians are spiritually reborn and transferred from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of light (
Colossians 1:13). This transformation is not merely positional but also practical, affecting how believers live and interact with the world.
2.
Moral Conduct: As "Children of the Day," Christians are called to exhibit behaviors that reflect their new nature.
Ephesians 5:8-9 states, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth" . This call to moral integrity and ethical living is a hallmark of the Christian life.
3.
Spiritual Vigilance: The metaphor of day and night in
1 Thessalonians 5 underscores the need for spiritual alertness. Believers are encouraged to be watchful and self-controlled, aware of the spiritual realities around them. This vigilance is rooted in the hope of Christ's return, motivating Christians to live in a manner worthy of their calling.
4.
Contrast with the World: The distinction between "Children of the Day" and those who belong to the night highlights the contrast between the church and the world. While the world is characterized by spiritual darkness and ignorance, believers are called to be beacons of light, illuminating the truth of the Gospel through their words and deeds.
Practical ImplicationsThe title "Children of the Day" carries practical implications for daily Christian living. It challenges believers to:
·
Live Transparently: Embrace honesty and integrity, avoiding deeds of darkness and living openly before God and others.
·
Pursue Holiness: Strive for personal holiness, reflecting the character of Christ in every aspect of life.
·
Engage in Witness: Actively share the light of the Gospel with those in spiritual darkness, fulfilling the Great Commission.
·
Cultivate Community: Foster a sense of community and accountability within the body of Christ, encouraging one another to remain steadfast in faith.
In summary, the title "Children of the Day" encapsulates the believer's identity, calling, and mission in the world. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of the Gospel and the responsibility of Christians to live as light-bearers in a darkened world.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Thessalonians 5:5You are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
"He is the Rock, his Work is Perfect. For all his Ways are ...
... It was enough of old with the saints, "It is the Lord, let him do ... word Jehovah holds
forth more to angels than all the inculcated names and titles of God ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon iii he is the.htm
The Kingly Priesthood of the Saints
... everything you like; but know that those titles will not ... thick jungle of India shall
see the saints of God ... t expect kings to put down their names for trifles. ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the kingly priesthood of the.htm
They Shall be Called the Children of God
... Positively: They have titles of honour ... The wicked have them by providence; the saints
by promise ... He blesses them in their souls, bodies, names, estate, posterity ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/19 they shall be called.htm
The Third Day in Passion-Week - the Last Controversies and ...
... they become heirs of all the blood of martyred saints, from that ... [5240] These titles
are put ... Matt.) are quite different names, in Greek as in Hebrew - {hebrew ...
/.../edersheim/the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter iv the third day.htm
Acts XI
... special reference to character, they were called saints. ... of mystic Babylon, and the
swelling titles by which ... the obligations implied in the names disciple and ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xi.htm
Hymns and Spiritual Songs
... 1. 9 10. Hymn 1:138. Saints in the hands of Christ, John 10. 28 29. ... Hymn 1:147. The
names and titles of Christ, from several scriptures. Hymn 1:148. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/hymns and spiritual songs/
The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity
... them by endearing names, by the highest titles which they ... Mark, Luke, and John, by
their right names, but must ... By grace alone could the saints in Rome call God ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 39 1893/the beloved pastors plea for.htm
Wisdom and Revelation.
... 2. THE APPEAL. The names and titles of God are ... Adopting, then, the second of these
interpretations, the saints belong to God and are precious in His sight. ...
/.../thomas/the prayers of st paul/vii wisdom and revelation.htm
The Tournament at Constantinople.
... aloft four banners, on each of which were inscribed his names and titles, and those ...
have ever since retained him among their most honoured saints and heroes ...
/.../the seven champions of christendom/chapter twelve the tournament at.htm
The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts
... 2 Tim. 1:9,10. HYMN 138 Saints in the hands of Christ Jn. 10:28,29. ... HYMN 147
The names and titles of Christ. From several scriptures. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watts/the psalms and hymns of isaac watts/
Resources
What are the names of Satan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a spiritual father? | GotQuestions.orgIs God male or female? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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