Our Lampstand
In our study of Exodus, we noted how God commanded Moses to make a lampstand (Exodus 25:31-35). This lampstand was to give light to the inside of the tabernacle. Light symbolizes God’s truth being taught and obeyed as David wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). What then happens if our light goes out? Jesus spoke to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2:5 these words, “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.” The removal of the lampstand implies that there is no more light coming from it. What good is a lampstand if it doesn’t have light in it. Jesus’ threat of removal was symbolic of the church at Ephesus no longer loving and obeying God’s truth. To have the lampstand removed means that the church has died. What is the condition of our lampstand? Is it shining brightly in our community? Are others learning about Jesus and coming to Him? Are we taking the gospel about Christ to our neighbors? It is imperative that we do as Jesus taught us to do: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Otherwise, our church will die and Christ will take away our lampstand. In this new year of 2017, let’s resolve to put Christ first in our life and actively tell others about Him. Our friends and neighbors need to know what it means to be a real Christian. Lead someone to Christ this year and keep the church alive! God bless you, and I love you. Kevin Cauley