Let your light shine

Read Matthew 5:14-16

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It’s not enough just to be salt preventing decay (13) – Christians must positively bring light into the darkness too. Jesus himself is the light of the world (Jn.8:12; 9:5) so it’s all the more amazing that he says the same thing about his followers. By living according to the way of God’s kingdom, we are able to reflect the light of Jesus for others to see (Col.1:12; Ph.2:15).

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“You” is emphatic (14; likewise in v13), referring to the disciples, not to people in general. The world’s need for light shows that it is in darkness (“despite its continuing claim to enlightenment” Morris). Jesus brought light from God (Jn.1:4) which is generally unwanted (Jn.3:19-21). But Jesus promised, “whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (Jn.8:12).

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So Christians can’t avoid being light-emitters (14), unless we choose to hide that light “under a bowl” (15). But as our intended purpose is to shine with God’s light, it’s good news that we are equipped to do so. So “let your light shine” (16). Be unashamed to be a follower of Jesus, living out the Beatitudes. Doing that will result in praise to God and blessing for people around us (Eph.5:8-9).