1. Listen carefully (16-18)

Jesus himself is the lamp on the stand. He proclaimed the gospel to all who would listen. He was sent by God to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God. The secrets of the kingdom were hidden from the world during his lifetime (10). After his death and resurrection, his gospel was made known to all the world. We must listen carefully to God's word and receive it with faith, and obey him. If we do not receive Jesus' word with obedient faith, even the little understanding we thought we had will be taken away.

2. Those who hear and obey the word (19-21)

Even Jesus' human family couldn't perceive the secrets of the kingdom of God. They only saw Jesus with human eyes. Jesus' real family were his disciples. We also can be Jesus' family when we hear God's word and put it into practice.

Application: Lord, help me to listen to your word and hold it in my heart. Help me to obey you and be one of your true family.
One Word: Light a lamp; put it on a stand