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.
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
Neither do men light a candle,.... Which may be read impersonally, "a candle is not lighted": and by it may be meant the Gospel, and gifts qualifying men to preach it; which, like a candle, was lighted in the evening of the Jewish dispensation, though not confined to the land of Judea; but has shone throughout the world, being as a candle to be removed...
Verse 15. Neither do men light a candle, etc. Jesus proceeded here to show them that the very reason why they were enlightened was, that others might also see the light, and be benefited by it. When men light a candle, they do not conceal the light, but place it where it may be of use. So it is with religion. It is given that we may benefit others.