Verse: Matthew 5:14
Context: Matthew 5:14-16

Jesus teaching on the Mount, called his followers and Christians light of the world. It is however noteworthy that Jesus also called himself the light of the world also (John 8:12) which means both Christ and his followers are lights but Christ is the main source of light. Just as the moon does not produce light of it own but reflects the light of the sun, the Christians cannot be light without Christ and that is why Jesus said we can do nothing without him (John 15:5).

Jesus also said that a Christian is like a city set on a hill which means his life is exposed to all. Christians should realize that they are carefully watched by others especially unbelievers because their life is like a book before their eyes and should therefore be of good conduct that will lead unbelievers to Christ.

In Mathew 5:15, just as a man can’t light a candle and cover it with a basket, Christian should not hide their light and the light of Christ from others. They should not hide the light of the gospel which is in their possession from others but should tell people about Jesus that they might be drawn from darkness into the marvelous light of Christ.

Jesus also admonished Christians that their light should shine before men which means their lives should act as light for others to see and their character should be glorious before men. They should be good and kind to others which others should see and give God praise for the life of the individual and possibly such act of kindness can lead other people to Christ.

The light of Christians which Christ said should shine before men is also referring to those things which has been given to Christians by God to use in drawing unbelievers to the light. This can refer to a gift. There are diversity of gifts and Christians should discover and use their gifts for the benefit of the kingdom. They are not to hide their gift and talents but should use it so that others will see their good works and give God praise.

Another light that Christians also possess is the light of the gospel. They are to preach the gospel always to others and should not hoard it because every Christian was save to save others and this can be done majorly through the help of the gospel.