Note 1 at Mk. 4:21: This parable continues the theme of being fruitful that Jesus taught in the parable of the sower sowing the seed. Just as a candle or lamp is not to be hid but rather displayed so that everyone can benefit from its light, so a Christian must let his light so shine before men that they might see his good works and glorify his Father which is in heaven (Mt. 5:16 --also see note 9 at Mt. 5:14, p. 75). God has ordained us to go and bring forth fruit (Jn. 15:16). The great commission of the church is to reach the world (Mt. 24:14; 28:19-20).