1. Title of the Parable
The Parable of the Lamp under a Basket
(also known as The Lamp on a Stand)
2. Scripture Reference(s)
- Matthew 5:14–16 (M)
- Mark 4:21 (Mk)
- Luke 8:16 (L)
3. Thematic Category
Discipleship and Faith; Witness; Visibility; Responsibility
4. Parable Summary
Jesus compares disciples to a lamp that, once lit, is not meant to be hidden under a basket or bed, but set on a stand to give light to everyone in the house. In Matthew’s version, He adds: “You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, so they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This parable urges believers to make their faith visible, not concealed or private, but publicly impactful for God’s glory.
5. Cultural and Historical Context
In ancient homes, a small oil lamp would be placed on a high stand to provide maximum illumination. Covering a lamp was counterproductive and even dangerous.
Jesus’ audience understood the value of light, especially in a world without electricity. Light symbolised truth, guidance, and divine presence, themes consistent throughout Scripture.
The idea of God’s people as a light to the nations is rooted in Old Testament imagery (cf. Isaiah 42:6; 49:6), which Jesus now applies to His followers.
6. Literary Form and Structure
- Type: Similitude / wisdom parable
- Structure: Image → Expected use → Moral exhortation
- Techniques: Symbolism (light, basket, stand), contrast, imperative tone
7. Theological Meaning and Kingdom Implications
The parable teaches that:
- The Kingdom is not secretive, but meant to be visible and transformative.
- Disciples are bearers of divine light, called to illuminate the world through truth, good works, and holy living.
- Faith is not merely personal—it carries public responsibility.
- Concealing one’s witness contradicts the nature of Kingdom citizenship.
8. Moral and Ethical Lessons
- Faith should be active and outward-facing, not hidden or self-contained.
- Christian living involves public testimony, moral clarity, and integrity.
- Hiding one’s light—whether through fear, compromise, or apathy—undermines the Gospel.
- Believers must act as ethical beacons, reflecting God’s truth in culture and society.
9. Jesus’ Interpretation or Explanation
In Matthew’s version, Jesus explicitly interprets the parable:
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matt. 5:16)
This confirms that the “light” refers to righteous living and Kingdom witness. In Mark and Luke, the broader message of revelation, openness, and accountability reinforces the idea that what is hidden will be revealed, making spiritual transparency a Kingdom imperative.
10. Application for Contemporary Readers
- Encourages Christians to boldly live their faith in public spaces—work, school, social media.
- Challenges cultural tendencies to privatise faith or avoid uncomfortable truths.
- Reminds the Church to be a city on a hill, not a retreating enclave.
- Calls for visible acts of justice, mercy, and truth that honour God and help others.
11. Comparative Insights and Scholarly Commentary
- Augustine taught that the lamp symbolises the illumination of God’s Word and grace, which believers must not hide.
- Calvin affirmed that faith must be demonstrated through action, not merely confessed.
- Craig Blomberg emphasises that the parable calls for authentic and public discipleship, especially through visible good works.
- N.T. Wright links the “light” with Israel’s vocation, now fulfilled in Jesus’ followers—a new people reflecting God to the world.
- R.T. France notes that the parable confronts spiritual complacency, insisting that true discipleship cannot be concealed.
12. Cross-References
- Isaiah 42:6 – “I will make you a light for the nations”
- Philippians 2:15 – “Shine like stars in the world”
- John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world”
- 1 Peter 2:12 – Live honourably so others may glorify God
13. Key Quotes and Phrases
- “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matt. 5:14)
- “Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket…” (Matt. 5:15)
- “Let your light shine before others…” (Matt. 5:16)
- “Nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest…” (Luke 8:17)