Luke 8:16-18 — Lightbulb!!!

READ THIS: Luke 8:16-18

16 “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.”

WHAT’S THIS MEAN, ANYWAY?

Yesterday, we talked about how other people didn't understand the parables, but the disciples got the special privilege of hearing the explanation. The verses above is a continuation of what Jesus said to the disciples in a moment of explaining the parable of the sower. We asked in yesterday's devo whether y'all thought the disciples kept Jesus' explanation to themselves. Here, these verses show that, at minimum, Jesus didn't think they should!

These verses tend to be used to talk about letting your gifts shine, but, in context, these verses can mean something more like this: When you learn something and have a lightbulb moment, share it! 

Light in ancient literature tends to be tied to knowledge/enlightenment (peek the word LIGHT hidden in there). When we develop a new understanding, we are supposed to share that. You don't hide light. Light demands to be spread. 

Even though some things, like parables, were intended to be confusing for a moment, that does not mean they were supposed to stay confusing forever if it could be helped. The disciples, having been given a light of understanding, should share it. 

Finally, regarding the last sentence in verse 18, it means that when people don't understand, they have a bunch of false ideas. When true understanding is brought, those false ideas are removed. And, once they have true understanding, then they can gain more and more of it!

THINK ABOUT IT:

1. What is a "lightbulb" moment that you have had? Did you share your light bulb moment with anyone? Why or why not?

2. When was a lightbulb moment with Jesus, if you've had one? (Meaning, when was a moment that you realized Jesus in a new way).

TRY THIS:

Share that lightbulb moment, if you had one, from question 2 with someone! Extra points if it's to a nonbeliever!

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