Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa, Bishop of the Ibadan Diocese, Anglican Communion, has called on Christians to live as shining lights in a world increasingly overwhelmed by darkness. Emphasizing the mandate given by Jesus Christ, the Light of the world, the bishop reminded believers of their responsibility to reflect this light and dispel evil in society.

Quoting from Matthew 5:14–16, he reiterated Christ’s words:
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden... Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

Bishop Akinfenwa stressed that Christians have no excuse for failing to shine in the moral and spiritual darkness around them. Though human strength is limited, God empowers His children through righteous living, acts of kindness, and love for the oppressed. He urged believers to rise and shine, using their conduct to glorify God and confront the evils of their generation.

He lamented that some Christians, rather than standing against evil, have begun to blend into it—engaging in fraud, corruption, and even forms of modern occultism. This, he said, makes it difficult for the light of Christ to be seen. “When a true child of God is present in any organization—no matter their rank—those working in darkness should feel uneasy,” he stated.

Addressing the excuse some believers make about being outnumbered by agents of darkness, the bishop reminded them of the power of even a small light. Referencing John 1:5, he said:
"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."

He encouraged Christians to recognize that Christ wants to shine through them and illuminate the world. As stated in John 8:12, Jesus is the Light of the world and calls His followers to reflect His nature in both speech and conduct. Christ, having completed His redemptive work, now intercedes for us in heaven, while the Holy Spirit strengthens believers to live as lights.

Citing Philippians 4:13—"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"—Bishop Akinfenwa urged Christians to stop holding back and instead step into their God-given purpose. He reminded them that shining their light does not depend on personal ability but on divine empowerment.

Concluding his message, he invoked the popular nursery rhyme:
“This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!”
He encouraged everyone to make it more than a song, but a lifestyle of active, visible faith.

"So, arise. Shine!" the bishop declared.