Parable of the Lamp

Introduction

Missed out on Mammoth Cave

Total darkness of Desoto Caverns

Read Matthew 5:15-16, Mark 4:21-25, Luke 8:16-18

Explanation

Jesus’ work continues through Jesus’ people. (v. 14a, “you are the light”)

Jesus is the light (John 8:12) but now we are too

Cannot be hidden (not should not be)

Town on a hill means there’s no such thing as “private faith”

No “between me and God” w/out “between me and others”

The light has to shine in the darkness to make a difference. (v. 15, “under a bowl” “on its stand”)

Jesus says it won’t make a difference if it’s under a bowl

Another way to think about it is the light section of Home Depot

One day God will be our light (Rev. 22:5)

Small amount of light from the screen makes a big difference

God has given you a place to stand

Other lamps aren’t placed where you are, so you can’t deflect responsibility

If the gospel of Jesus hasn’t affected your actions, your words about Jesus won’t affect your friends. (v. 16a, “before others”)

Focus is on example over words

God can use imperfect messengers

We shouldn’t wait to be perfect in action to talk

But people can tell sincerity

Not just about being in the darkness but shining in the darkness

The point of being light is to point to the Light. (v. 16b, “glorify your Father”)

Testimonies are about how grateful we are, not how great we are

God gets the glory

We’re like a mirror reflecting the light

Are you content to be forgotten?

What greater joy than to be used by God to help someone cross from death to life? (John 5:24)

Exhortation

Lost —  Go to Jesus. // Unbaptized — Go public. // Believers — Go to Spring Training.