The inspired writers showed the work of Jesus, as well as His character, by employing metaphors. They used different objects of nature to show forth His beauty and glory, such as the earth, the sea and the sky. His stability and strength is seen in the rock, His fruitfulness in the vine, His purity in the filly, the satisfaction He offers in the fountain of living water, and the true light as the light of the world.

The Old Testament prophet Malachi refers to Him as "the Sun of righteousness." There are many ways in which we can figuratively see Jesus as the Sun. There are many ways in which we can figuratively see Jesus as the Sun. There are a lot of stars, seas, trees and flowers but there is only one sun. On the earth it has no peers. Celestially speaking, there are many angels, seraphim and cherubim, but there is only one Son of God, one mediator between God and man, the man Jesus Christ.

When we remember that the sun is the center of the solar system, we are also reminded that Christ is the Most High. When we think of the widespread influence the sun has in the world and how in shines on valleys, mountains, deserts, vineyards, the rich and the poor, we are compelled to meditate on God's great Gift to the world - the Saviour of all men or all who would obey His voice. North, South, East or West, Jesus has no earthly distinctions, and all men, whether rich or poor can enjoy His brightness.

Jesus is the fountain of light. As the "Sun of righteousness," He removes all darkness to whosoever will accept the light of knowledge, happiness; holiness, and heaven. Jesus, the Sun, is the source of beauty and vegetation. Flowers and plants would be nothing without the sun and we are a pool of gloom without the Son. All the fruits of righteousness are produced by Him. Jesus said, "Without me, ye can do nothing."

We can also see Jesus as the Sun in regard to the types and shadows of the Old Testament. When we read of such things in the Old Testament as the tabernacle, the Holy Place and the Most Holy place we are made to wonder as to their meaning. But Jesus, the Sun of Righteousness, has removed the shadows of things to come by His first coming to the earth. We can know what these types and figures look forward to now because Jesus has shed light upon them.

Regarding the subjects of conversion and salvation, Jesus, the Sun, brought life and immortality into light. But it must be remembered what Malachi said: "But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings" (Mal. 4:2). This is the kind of fear that is holy in that it produces a regard for Jesus' authority and laws. It is associated with love and obedience. Without this fear, we will reject Christ and despise His way of life for us. Has Jesus, the Sun arisen upon you? There is no saving light but that which He gives.

Truth Magazine XXIII: 29, p. 472
July 26, 1979