Note 1 at Mr 4:21: This parable continues the theme of being fruitful that Jesus taught in the parable of the sower sowing the seed. A candle or lamp is not to be hid but rather displayed so that everyone can benefit from its light. Likewise, Christians must let their light so shine before people that they might see their good works and glorify their Father who is in heaven (Mt 5:16 and see note 9 at Mt 5:14). God has ordained Christians to go and bring forth fruit (Joh 15:16). The great commission of the church is to reach the world (Mt 24:14 and 28:19-20).