Do You Really Know Jesus? When the Light Changes Everything
In Journey to Salvation – Part 6, Jessica Pierce presents a message centered on a question many people wrestle with quietly: Is believing in Jesus the same as truly knowing Him? Rather than approaching the topic devotionally, this teaching examines Scripture, lived experience, and biblical theology to clarify what it actually means to walk in the light—and why that distinction matters.
Believing in Jesus vs. Knowing Jesus
Many people identify as Christians because they believe Jesus exists, agree with His teachings, or grew up around church. Scripture, however, draws a clear distinction between belief and relationship.
Belief can exist without transformation. Knowing Jesus implies proximity, obedience, and daily dependence. A relationship with Christ affects decisions, priorities, relationships, and responses to hardship—not just beliefs about eternity.
This difference explains why someone can affirm Christian doctrine while still experiencing spiritual distance, relational breakdown, or internal darkness.
Can Someone Be a Believer Without a Relationship With Christ?
Scripture and experience both suggest the answer is yes.
Exposure to church, memorization of Scripture, or participation in religious activities does not automatically result in relational closeness with Jesus. A relationship requires engagement—inviting Christ into everyday life rather than reserving faith for moments of crisis or ritual.
The New Testament consistently presents faith as active participation, not passive agreement.
Light and Darkness: A Biblical Framework
In Scripture, darkness is not described as an equal opposite force to light. Darkness is defined by absence, not power.
John 1:1–5 (NIV)
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He was with God in the beginning.
Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Darkness does not overcome light—it disappears when light is present. This framework shapes how Scripture describes spiritual change. The arrival of Jesus does not negotiate with darkness; it exposes and replaces it.
When Jesus Enters, Hidden Things Are Revealed
Light does more than illuminate what is obvious. It reveals what has been concealed.
In the same way a flashlight exposes uneven ground, obstacles, or danger that was already present, Jesus brings clarity to areas of life that were previously ignored or avoided. This exposure is not for condemnation, but for healing and direction.
Light reveals reality so that restoration becomes possible.
Arise and Shine: Reflecting God’s Light, Not Creating It
Isaiah 60 is often quoted but frequently misunderstood. The passage does not command people to create light—it assumes the light has already come.
Isaiah 60:1–6 (NIV)
Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.
See, darkness covers the earth
and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the LORD rises upon you
and his glory appears over you.
Nations will come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
The instruction is directional, not creative.
The action is to turn toward the light and reflect it.
Isaiah 60:3 (NIV)
Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.
The light draws others—not to the individual, but to God working through them.
Why the Magi Matter: Outsiders and God’s Design
The account of the Magi in Matthew 2 demonstrates that God’s plan of salvation was never limited to insiders.
Matthew 2:1–12 (NIV)
The Magi were Gentiles—outsiders—yet they were intentionally led by a star to Jesus. Their journey was not accidental. They were drawn by light and responded with worship.
This narrative establishes a pattern: when God’s light is visible, seekers are drawn to it, regardless of background or status.
Is Faith Only About Personal Salvation?
Scripture consistently presents faith as both personal and outward-facing.
Matthew 5:14–16 (NIV)
You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
The purpose of light is visibility. Faith is not intended to be isolated or hidden—it is meant to guide others toward God.
Salvation, Unity, and the Inclusion of Everyone
The Apostle Paul addresses this directly when explaining the purpose of the Gospel.
Ephesians 3:1–12 (NIV)
Through Christ, Gentiles and Jews are united into one body. Salvation is shared, not segmented. Access to God is granted through faith, not heritage, history, or qualification.
Unity is not optional in the Christian life—it is a result of the light breaking down barriers.
Jesus as the Source of Direction and Truth
Jesus explicitly identifies Himself as the light that provides clarity and direction.
John 8:12 (NIV)
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Following implies movement. Light is not merely something to acknowledge—it is something to walk with.
What Changes When Someone Walks in the Light?
When light enters previously dark areas of life, patterns begin to shift:
- Greater honesty and self-awareness
- Restoration in relationships
- Increased clarity and purpose
- Willingness to surrender control
Light does not merely expose problems—it provides the path forward.
Is It Too Late to Begin a Relationship With Jesus?
Scripture consistently answers this question with clarity: no.
The invitation to return, to follow, and to begin again appears throughout the Bible. The presence of light indicates opportunity, not condemnation.
Why This Question Still Matters
The difference between believing in Jesus and knowing Him shapes how faith is lived out in real life. Christianity is not presented in Scripture as a belief system alone, but as a relationship that transforms direction, identity, and purpose.
The light has come.
The response determines everything.
Take the Next Step
If this message raised questions about belief, relationship, or what it means to walk in the light, don’t ignore them.
Faith was never meant to be explored alone.
Whether you are searching, returning, or looking for a church community that values honesty, Scripture, and real transformation, you are welcome.
👉 Plan a visit to Open Arms Community Church:
http://openarmscommunitychurch.org/visit
If you believe in the mission of sharing the light of Christ and helping others encounter truth, restoration, and unity, your generosity makes that possible.
👉 Support the ministry:
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