Mark 4:21
And he said vnto them, Is a candle brought to be put vnder a bushell, or vnder a bed? & not to be set on a candlesticke? Mark 4:21 (KJV)
And he said unto them,
Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? Mark 4:21 (KJV)
In this passage Jesus is addressing a large crowd gathered by the Sea of Galilee, shortly after He has explained the Parable of the Sower. He uses the familiar image of a candle to illustrate the purpose of the gospel message and the responsibility of those who receive it.
Metaphor of Light
Jesus frequently employs light as a symbol of spiritual truth. The candle represents the light of Christ that believers receive. Passages such as John 8:12 and 1 John 1:5 reinforce the biblical association of light with divine revelation and moral purity.
Purpose of a Candle
The rhetorical question highlights the practical function of a lit candle: to give illumination. Placing it under a bushel or a bed defeats its purpose, rendering it ineffective. Likewise, the gospel loses its power when concealed. The imagery invites believers to consider how they might be unintentionally hiding the light they have been given.
Application to Believers
Followers of Christ are called to let their received light shine openly. This may involve resisting the temptation to keep faith private or to downplay its significance in daily life. Practical steps include sharing personal testimony, living with integrity, and demonstrating Christ‑like love in families, workplaces, and communities.
Candlestick Symbolism
Jesus contrasts hiding the light with setting it on a candlestick (or lampstand). The Old Testament lampstand, described in Exodus 25:31‑40 and echoed in Zechariah 4:2, served as a visible source of light for the sanctuary. The New Testament application points to believers as visible bearers of divine illumination in the world.
Implication for Witnessing
The verse underscores the urgency of evangelism. To “let our light shine” means actively sharing the gospel through words and deeds. Practical avenues include intentional conversation, acts of service, and embodying the character of Christ so that others are drawn to the source of the light.
Further Study
Readers are encouraged to examine the surrounding verses in Mark 4 to grasp the broader teaching, compare multiple translations, and consult reputable commentaries and study resources for deeper insight.
