Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 5:14-15

"Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do [men] light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the stand; and it shineth unto all that are in the house." — Matthew 5:14-15 (ASV)

We are to remove the darkness of ignorance, sin, and sorrow. Christ has lit us so that we may enlighten the world. It is not for us to conceal our religion. God intends His grace to be as conspicuous as a city built on the mountain's brow. To attempt to conceal His Spirit is as foolish as to put a lamp under a bushel. The lamp should be seen by all that are in the house, and so should the Christian's graces. Household piety is the best of piety.

If our light is not seen in the house, depend upon it, we have none. Candles are meant for parlors and bedrooms. Let us not cover up the light of grace. Indeed, we cannot be hid if once the Lord has built us on the hill of His love, neither can we dwell in darkness if God has lit us and set us on a candlestick.

Lord, let me be zealous to spread the light I have received from You, even throughout the world! At least let me shine in my own home.

A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Christians ought to be seen, and they ought to let their light be seen. They should never even attempt to conceal it. If you are a lamp, you have no right to be under a bushel, or under a bed; your place is on the lampstand where your light can be seen.