Tuesday 3 May 2016

Luke 8:16 - 21 – The parable of the lamp

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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