Matthew 5:14-16
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14-16: Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 14: Jesus tells his followers that they are the light of the world. This means that they are meant to bring light, truth, and goodness to the world. Just as a town built on a hill cannot be hidden, their light should shine brightly for all to see.
Verse 15: Jesus uses the analogy of lighting a lamp to illustrate his point. Just as people don’t light a lamp and then hide it under a bowl, his followers should not hide their light. Instead, they should let it shine for all to see, just like a lamp on a stand that gives light to everyone in the house.
Verse 16: Jesus emphasizes the importance of letting one’s light shine before others. By doing good deeds and living a life that reflects the teachings of God, his followers can bring glory to God. When others see their good works, they will be inspired to glorify God, who is the source of all goodness and light.