THE LAMP

Introduction: These verses form a practical application of the famous parable of the sower. They are intended to hammer home to our minds the parable’s important lessons. Jesus said in vs. 10: “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you.” What are you going to do with it?

I. Purpose of the lamp vs. 16-17 Give light

A. So that those who come in can see the light.

B. Like any other lamplighter God wants lamps to perform their natural task, in this case to send a shaft of light out to those who (in the imagery used) still need to find their way into the house.

C. Matthew 5.14

D. Put it on a stand

1. The stand is important only because it holds the light high where it can reach into the corners

2. It is our job to hold up Jesus, not convert the world

II. Hiding the light is unheard of vs. 16-17

A. No one would waste a candle or oil for the lamp by hiding the light

B. Why would a Christian hide their faith?

1. Shame

2. Afraid to be different Chickens in a pen

3. Tolerance We are more like our culture than like Jesus!

C.

III. Listen carefully vs. 18 Net Bible

A. Be careful, then, how you respond. Cotton Patch

B. Proverbs 4.20-22

B. What matters is what you do with what you have heard.

C. Faith without works James 2.14-26

D. Many of you have 50 years of hearing. What have you done with all that learning?

IV. If you hear (respond) correctly, you will understand (be able to do) more vs. 18

A. Jesus gives this message repeatedly Lk 19:26; Mt 13:12; 25:29; Mk 4:25; 10:29, 30; Jn 15:2.

B. Luke 6.37 Forgiveness

Conclusion: “Blessed … are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Luke 11.28 We are blessed beyond understanding! Let’s share our light with those in the dark.