Matthew 4:17 Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.

The Story
Mat 4:16 the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned."

The Words of Jesus
Mat 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."

Background
When Jesus walked the earth, people in darkness saw a great light; and Jesus called these same people to repent for the kingdom of heaven was near.  Darkness describes the realm of Satan, whereas light describes the kingdom of God. This was clearly outlined in the commission of the apostle Paul. (see Act 26:17-18) Paul was given a task to turn the Gentiles from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.

This is the great struggle that still exists in the world. There are still those who sit in darkness and must be called to repentance - and those who turn find themselves as followers of Jesus. And Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (see Joh 8:12)

Unfortunately there will be those who reject the light and will not turn or repent. John puts it this way. “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. Joh 3:19-21

Application
For those who have come into the light:

• We can rejoice that we have been rescued from the dominion of darkness and have received forgiveness of sins. Col 1:12-14

• We can declare the praise of Him who called us out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1Pe 2:9

• We can live as children of light. Eph 5:8

• We can let our light shine before others, that they may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven. Mat 5:14-16