Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
In this saying, Jesus continues to use the image of light, explaining that the purpose of lighting a lamp is not to hide it, but to make it accessible to everyone. In the same way, a lamp that is lit is not placed in a hidden spot, but is set on a lampstand so that its light may spread throughout the whole house. With this image, Jesus emphasizes that believers must live out their faith openly and share it with others. Faith and truth should not be hidden, but passed on, so that people, seeing their life, may come toward the light of God. Just as light fills a room, so the life of Jesus’ followers should be such that it helps others find the right path. Thus, this saying encourages believers not to hide what God has given them, namely, the light of truth and goodness.