The "Great Light"

What, though, of Matthew's mention of "a great light" in Galilee?  This too was a quotation from Isaiah's  prophecy. Isaiah wrote:  "The people that were walking in the darkness have seen a great light. As for those dwelling in the land of deep shadow, light itself has shone upon them."  (Isaiah 9:2) By the first century C.E., the light of truth had been hidden by pagan falsehoods.  Jewish religious leaders had compounded the problem by holding to their religious  tradition with which they had "made the word of God invalid."  (Matthew 15:6)  Humble ones were oppressed and bewildered, following "blind guides."  (Matthew 23:2-4, 16)  When Jesus the Messiah appeared, the eyes of many humble people were opened in a wondrous way.  (John 1:9, 12)  Jesus' work while on earth and the blessings resulting from his sacrifice are aptly characterized in Isaiah's prophecy as "a great light." -John 8:12.

Those who responded to the light had much reason for rejoicing.  Isaiah continued: "You have made the nation populous; for it you have made the rejoicing great.  They have rejoiced before you as with the rejoicing in the harvest time, as those who are joyful when they divide p the spoil."  (Isaiah 9:3)  As a result of the preaching activity of Jesus and his followers, honest hearted ones came forward, showing themselves desirous of worshiping Jehovah with spirit and truth.  (John 4:24)  In less than four years, multitudes embraced Christianity.  Three thousand were baptized on the same day of Pentecost 33 C.E. Shortly afterward, "the number of the men became about five thousand."  (Acts 2:41; 4:4) As the disciples zealously reflected the light, "the number of the disciples kept multiplying in Jerusalem very much; and a great crowd  of priest  began to be obedient to the faith." -Acts 6:7.

Like those who rejoice in a bounteous harvest or who delight over the division of valuable spoil after a great military victory, Jesus' followers rejoiced over the increase.  (Acts 2:46, 47)  In time, Jehovah caused the light to shine among the nations.  (Acts 14:27)  So people of all races rejoiced that the way of approach to Jehovah had been opened to them. -Acts 13:48.

Next time: "As in the Day of Midian"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind