In this parable of the lamp, Luke is still very much
on the issue of discipleship and the Word of God. In the parable of the sower,
Jesus was essentially dealing with “how should a disciple hear the Word”. This
act of right hearing is important because a genuine disciple is determined by his
capability to hear God’s Word. Now in the parable of the lamp, Jesus is taking
us one step further. He shows us that while genuine hearing is determined by the
state of one’s heart, good witness is determined by one’s conduct and behavior.
One’s behavior in life offers clear evidence of whether he has rightly heard
the Word. And a person who has the truth is not afraid to live it, even if
everyone does not consider it a norm to live that way.
We have all heard of people who claim to be Christians
but are afraid to practice the principles of God’s Word in the open. Let’s take
one simple but common experience. There are Christians who are still afraid to
give thanks to God publicly for the food they are about to eat. We must know
that in God’s community there should be no secret disciples. As followers of
Christ we automatically must become torch-bearers. The light is the behavior of
our life. Our calling is to bring light to those plunged in darkness. This is
part and parcel of discipleship and a ministry every disciple must do. Just as
no one would hide a lit lamp under a bed, but rather would put it on a
lampstand to provide light. So it is necessary for Christians to let their
behavior speaks for Christ. There is no way we can hide our testimony,
everything will be brought to light ultimately.
Right belief begins with
right hearing, so also is right behavior. That’s why verse 18 says, “So take care how you listen; for
whoever has, to him more shall
be given; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks
he has shall be taken away from him.” When we have acted on what we have heard,
we make ourselves ready to receive more. If we don’t act on what we know,
whatever little we have would soon be gone and forgotten.
When Jesus’ earthly mother and brothers
came to see Him, they were not able to get near to Him because of the crowd of
people. When it was reported to Him that His mother and brothers were standing
outside waiting to see Him, His reply was, “My mother and My brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.” We
deduce from His response that anyone who hears and act on His Word, becomes a
family member of His. This is a key to intimacy with the Lord.
Yes, we must
hear the Word but we must also do what the Word says. Hearing right sets us on
the right course. Doing right makes us good witnesses. Let’s do well for both,
as an offering and a worship to our great God!
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