What is the meaning of Mark 4:21? Does anyone bring in a lamp… “Does anyone bring in a lamp” (Mark 4:21a) • A lamp’s very purpose is to shine; in Scripture, light consistently pictures God’s truth and presence (John 8:12; Psalm 119:105). • Jesus, the true Light, has come into the world so that nothing remains hidden (John 1:4-5). • By speaking of “bringing” a lamp, the Lord highlights intentional action—truth is meant to be actively introduced, not passively ignored (2 Corinthians 4:6). …to put it under a basket… “…to put it under a basket” (Mark 4:21b) • A basket (measuring container) would suffocate a flame and cancel its usefulness. • Hiding Christ’s message blocks others from seeing the way of salvation (Matthew 5:15). • The picture warns against fear, compromise, or cultural pressure that would muffle the gospel (Romans 1:16). …or under a bed… “…or under a bed?” (Mark 4:21c) • A bed suggests comfort or negligence; light shoved beneath it is wasted. • Spiritual lethargy dims witness just as surely as outright rejection (Ephesians 5:14). • Believers are called to stay awake and alert, not lulled into silence (1 Thessalonians 5:5-6). …Doesn’t he set it on a stand? “Doesn’t he set it on a stand?” (Mark 4:21d) • The normal, reasonable act is to elevate the lamp where its rays reach everyone present (Philippians 2:15-16). • God places His people as “a city on a hill” so that His glory is unmistakable (Matthew 5:14). • Bold, public testimony fulfills our identity as a “royal priesthood” declaring His praises (1 Peter 2:9). • When the gospel is given its rightful place, darkness retreats and fruit follows (Mark 4:20; Acts 13:47-48). summary Mark 4:21 teaches that God never intends His light—ultimately Christ Himself and, by extension, His Word and His followers’ witness—to be hidden. Any attempt to conceal it, whether by fear, complacency, or distraction, contradicts the very reason the light was given. Instead, the verse calls every disciple to place the lamp on its stand, openly and courageously illuminating the world with the truth that saves. |
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