Jesus’ announcement that the kingdom of God has come, was a call to repent from wayward living. Jesus knew that true knowledge of God could be achieved by moral renewal of the soul. Light and darkness could not co-exist exist for darkness means absence of light. Jesus came as a shining light from God, teaching, “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another” (1 John 1:5-7a).
Our life style must reflect righteousness and justice, as revealed by the symbolism of light. Repentance is a step towards righteousness, bringing moral renewal and change of direction; from darkness to light and the practice of truthfulness. As we walk in light, we love and serve all people as God’s creation, and fellowship with all. We do not judge one another, rather love and serve one another. Imagine the harmony such living would promote in a strife torn anxious world.
The true knowledge of God revealed in Jesus Christ, John tells us, helps us walk in light of moral renewal, thereby helping us discern the presence of God. The knowledge that is discerned is secure and stable and reflected in truthful living.
However, many followers of Jesus raised the issue that many a time we falter and fumble and give into the lusts of life. What shall we do then? What will happen to the evil deeds that we committed? John answered, that if we confess our sins God is just and faithful to forgive and purify us because He himself became a sacrifice for our wayward life (1:7b-8). This freedom from guilt is available to all. As our soul is renewed by repentance we experience freedom.