Bible highlighting, bookmarks, and notes

Read in context

Read Matthew 5:1–16. Jesus addresses His disciples in the Sermon on the Mount, following the blessings and the image of salt. The light imagery leads to visible good works and the Father’s glory.

1. Observation · what does it say?

Question: What two everyday pictures does Jesus use, and what result does He name?

Example answer: A city on a hill cannot be hidden, and a light belongs on a candlestick rather than under a bushel. Verse 16 connects shining with others seeing good works and glorifying the Father. The stated goal is their response to God, not the disciples’ reputation.

2. Meaning · how does the context explain it?

Question: How do the pictures explain the instruction?

Example answer: Light benefits those around it when it is visible. Jesus calls His disciples to a life whose good works direct attention to their Father. Read Matthew 6:1 alongside it: doing good to be admired is a different motive from doing good so that God is honoured. The two passages distinguish visibility from self-promotion.

3. Application · one possible response

One possible response: “At school or work I will include someone regularly left out, without filming it or turning it into a story about myself. I will ask whether the action actually helped the person.” This gives visible goodness a practical expression while attending to Jesus’ stated purpose.

Make each highlight explain something

Try it yourself: What relationship does your marking reveal?

Mark the two light pictures and underline the purpose at the end of verse 16. Beside them write: visible good works should lead to the Father’s glory. Compare Matthew 6:1 in a separate note about motive. Avoid highlighting the whole paragraph so heavily that the important connection disappears.

A reading to avoid

Do not confuse witnessing with cultivating a public image of goodness. Nor should this verse be used to require people to publicise every act of service.

Pray and revisit

Father, let the good I do help others and honour You rather than advertise me.

After trying your response, return to the passage: what did you learn, what did you do, and what still needs thought? You can revise your notes as your understanding grows.