The Parable of the Lamp

In Luke 8:16-21, Jesus shares the parable of the Lamp, emphasizing the importance of living as lights in the world. The passage reads:

“No one lights a lamp and hides it under a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.” Now Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him, but they were not able to get near him because of the crowd. Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.” He replied, “My mother and brothers are those who hear God’s word and put it into practice.”

Let Your Light Shine

Jesus begins by using a simple yet powerful illustration. A lamp is meant to be placed on a stand, not hidden under a jar or bed. The purpose of a lamp is to provide light, allowing people to see clearly. In the same way, we are called to let our light shine before others (Matthew 5:16). When we receive God's Word and His truth, it illuminates our hearts and lives. It is not meant to be hidden but shared with the world, bringing light to those around us.

Revealing What is Hidden

Jesus also speaks about how nothing hidden will remain concealed. This underscores the idea that our actions, words, and even thoughts will eventually be brought to light. God sees and knows everything. Therefore, we should live with integrity, letting our light shine not just in public but also in private. Our lives should consistently reflect the truth and love of Christ, no matter who is watching.

Careful Listening and Obedience

Jesus urges us to consider carefully how we listen. This means we must be attentive and receptive to God's Word. It's not enough to hear it; we must also understand and apply it. Those who truly listen and obey will be blessed with more understanding and spiritual growth. On the other hand, those who are indifferent or disobedient will find even what they think they have slipping away. Our relationship with God deepens when we actively listen to and live out His teachings.

True Family of God

The passage concludes with Jesus redefining what it means to be part of His family. When told that His mother and brothers were seeking Him, He responds by saying that His true family consists of those who hear God's Word and put it into practice. This statement emphasizes the importance of obedience and living out our faith. Being part of God's family is not about physical relationships but about spiritual kinship rooted in following Christ.

Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate degree in Christian Education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Counseling.  I live by 1 Corinthians 9:16, Ephesians 3:7-8, and Colossians 1:28-29. In my retirement, I focus on study and sharing the teachings of God’s Word with others. Besides writing this Blog I maintain 3 Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God. Email: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com