In the Parable of the Lamp (Mark 4:21-25), our Lord used a common object (a lamp) in a familiar scene (a home). The lamp was a clay dish filled with oil, with a wick put into the oil. In order to give light, the lamp had to “use itself up,” and the oil had to be replenished. If the lamp was not lit, or if it was covered up, it did the home no good.

It’s the same thing with Christians, whom Jesus referred to as the light of the world; they are to let their light shine for all to see (Matthew 5:14-16). But to be a light of the world, we must live in the light. So how does one live in the light of God?

The Lamp and the Kingdom of God

What does the image of light and a lamp tell us about the kingdom of God? Lamps in the ancient world served a vital function, much like they do today. They enable people to see and work in the dark and to avoid stumbling or losing their way.

Related Article: Out of Darkness into Light

The Jews also understood “light” as an expression of the inner beauty, truth, and goodness of God. We see many passages from the Old Testament Scriptures that describe how God’s light guides and helps us grow in our knowledge of Him and His truth and wisdom for our lives. (See Psalm 36:9 and Psalm 119: 105.)

Living in the Light of God

Ever asked why the Lord calls us the light of the world? Why has Jesus compared us to a city on a hill? Are we not called to shine in the midst of darkness, and stand up high for those most sunk down?

If you hide your lamp beneath a bushel, you will soon notice that you yourself will be in the dark. You will find others bumping into you. So what can you do to illumine the world?

1. By being a light-bearer of God’s truth and love.

Having received the Light (Jesus) and His truth, we are not to hide, suppress, or destroy it. Rather, we must let it prevail. We have the solemn responsibility to spread it in whatever way as God gives us the opportunity. But then you may say, “I don’t think I can.”

Of course, it will not be easy if we are trying to do it on our own. But if we allow God’s grace, truth, and power to work in us, He will enable us to be a light-bearer without fear or reservation. God will also fill us with His Holy Spirit so that we may shine brightly with the radiance of His truth, love, and goodness.

Just as natural light prevails over the darkness around us and enables us to see clearly, so the light of Christ in us will shine in the hearts of all and enable them to hear and believe God’s Word. We just have to trust and obey God.

2. By being a witness for Christ.

Jesus called John the Baptist “a burning and shining lamp” (John 5:35) because he bore witness to God’s word and pointed others to Jesus, the true light and Savior of the world.

Our call and mission, like John the Baptist, is to be a witness for Christ so that many others may hear the Gospel (good news of Jesus Christ) and be set free from the blindness of sin, ignorance, and deception.

3. Let your faith produce good works.

Be a reflection of God’s light. The good is not preoccupied with darkness. It rejoices in being seen (John 3:21). It exults over the very pointing which is made at it. Christian modesty not only wishes to be modest but also wishes to be beheld as what it actually is.

No other than the apostle James said faith that does not produce good works is dead (James 2:26). However, I must clarify that the Bible does not teach we are saved by good works. Rather, good works come as a result of genuine faith, and it is genuine faith that saves.

Be Careful Little Ears What you Hear

There is a warning in Mark 4:24-25: “You must take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”

In other words, the more we hear the Word of God, the better we are able to share it with others. But we must pay close attention to what we hear as well as know what we hear (Luke 8:18). Because our spiritual hearing determines how much we have to give to others.

Christians should do well to put themselves under good teachers. We are to choose a spiritual family whose leaders teach the whole counsel of God. And upon hearing the Word, we must receive it with gladness.

When we have the godly habits of receiving God’s Word and living it, we will grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.

Results of Living in the Light

Jesus remarks that nothing can remain hidden or secret. We can try to hide things from others, from ourselves, and from God. How tempting to shut our eyes from the consequences of our sinful ways or bad habits, even when we know what those consequences are.

How tempting to hide them from others and even from God. But, nonetheless, everything is known to God who sees all.

There is great freedom and joy for those who live in God’s light and who seek His truth and goodness. Those who listen to God and heed His voice will receive more from Him.

They will not lack what they need to live as Christ’s disciples. And they will shine as lights that show the wisdom and truth of God’s word. Do you know the joy and freedom of living in God’s light and truth?