Shining Light

Shining Light

Mark 4:21-25, NLT

Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. 22For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. 23Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” 24Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given—and you will receive even more. 25To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.”

Setting the Scene

There are parallel passages with these same comments of Jesus given in Luke 8:16-18 and at several places in Matthew. Jesus probably was speaking to the disciples with the crowd gathered around them. Here in Mark, the discussion of “a lamp,” “a basket,” and “understanding” appear immediately after Jesus’ explanation of the parable of the farmer, seeds, and soils.

A “lamp” was a lighted wick in a clay bowl full of oil. The lamp would never be lit and then put “under a basket or under a bed.” It would be put on its stand in order to illuminate the room. In the same way, the purpose of the parables was not to conceal the truth but to reveal it.

Jesus was telling the disciples that the benefits of knowing him were to be passed on, like light shining in darkness. They should “pay close attention,” so they would know the truth and be able to share it with others. Jesus added that those who listen and understand would continue to grow because they let God’s Word make a difference in their lives; but those who listen casually would miss the point entirely.

Getting Personal

Often Jesus would say, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” When have you experienced others who listened to the gospel message without seeming to understand it at all?

How can paying close attention to the gospel teaching about Jesus shine light on your daily priorities?

What can you do to “pay close attention” (v. 24) to Jesus and his teachings?

Christ’s message about God’s Kingdom is intended for everyone. At times, believers seem to hide their faith from the watching world, as if putting their light under a basket. But Jesus calls us to spread the truth about the Kingdom, scattering seeds, shining light. We can only share what we know, so we should be diligent about listening and learning from the Master. But God will lead us to those whom we can help with what we know.

Regardless of your level of spiritual maturity, “let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:16, NLT).

Talking to God

When you are tired, stressed, or distracted, it can be hard to “pay close attention” as you read God’s Word and listen to God in prayer. Ask God to help you as you focus your attention on him; ask for the Holy Spirit to quicken your understanding and interest.