What does Matthew 5:16 mean?
This verse concludes Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount that his followers are "the light of the world." A lamp is not lit to be hidden under a basket, but placed where it lights up the whole house. So Christians should live in such a way that others can see their good works. The purpose is crucial: not so that people will praise us, but so that they will "glorify your Father which is in heaven." Later in the same sermon, Jesus warns against doing good deeds to be seen. The difference is the motive: shining for God's glory rather than our own.
Matthew 5:16 in the World English Bible
Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Context
15 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.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
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Frequently asked questions
What does Matthew 5:16 mean?
This verse concludes Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount that his followers are "the light of the world." A lamp is not lit to be hidden under a basket, but placed where it lights up the whole house. So Christians should live in such a way that others can see their good works. The purpose is crucial: not so that people will praise us, but so that they will "glorify your Father which is in heaven." Later in the same sermon, Jesus warns against doing good deeds to be seen. The difference is the motive: shining for God's glory rather than our own.
What does Matthew 5:16 say in the KJV?
Matthew 5:16 (KJV) reads: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”