Neither do men light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the stand; and it shineth unto all that are in the house.
Neither do men light a candle--or, lamp. and put it under a bushel--a dry measure. but on a candlestick--rather, "under the bushel, but on the lampstand." The article is inserted in both cases to express the familiarity of everyone with those household utensils. and it giveth light--shineth "unto all that are in the house."
The apostles are salt of the earth because they carry the doctrine of the Gospel, penetrating, cleansing, preserving, to all the world. Though few and weak, this salt diffuses its savor far and wide, working insensibly and irresistibly as leaven, reaching the heart where force of arms could never reach.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 5:13-16
Christ shows us plainly why we are enlightened: so that others may see the light and benefit from it. Religion is not meant to be hidden away like a light under a basket, but to shine openly and shed its radiance on the dark world around us.
AI summary