Being a Candle to the World

When it comes to sharing our faith, should we boldly shine like a spotlight… or quietly flicker like a penlight? That’s the hilarious and thought-provoking debate as a well-meaning church group tries to plan their “Light to the World” outreach—without offending anyone (or, heaven forbid, embarrassing themselves in public!).

With characters ranging from fired-up new believers to seasoned pew-sitters trying to stay “politically correct,” this clever skit reveals just how easy it is to dim the message of the Gospel in the name of being safe and subtle.

Perfect for youth or adult drama teams, Being a Candle to the World sparks laughter while encouraging boldness in our witness. A fun and convicting reminder that we’re called to shine, not hide.

Cast: 5 (m or f)

• Phil
• Margaret
• Tony
• Sam
• Tom

Bible Reference: Matthew 5:16

Set: standard

Sound: wireless mics if available

Song: none

Lighting: standard

SFX: none

Props: none

Costumes: standard

Special Instructions: none

Time: 12

Sample of script:

[Lights up. A group of actors come on stage, chatting among themselves as they enter.]

Phil: …so I just said to Martha, look if you don’t get the joke do you think it would help if I dressed as a penguin?

[Phil laughs hysterically. The others offer polite, nervous chuckles—they clearly don’t understand the joke.]

Margaret: Well, anyhow, best we get started. Good that everyone came. Tonight we want to plan our “Light to the World” community outreach.

Terry: Anyone see Tom? I am sure Tom will no way miss this meeting. I mean, Tom was way excited about this outreach—hasn’t talked of anything else in weeks!

Sam: Isn't it great the way Tom has responded since he became a Christian? I mean, he fires me up with his enthusiasm!

Phil: Well, that’s the way with those new Christians, isn’t it? They kinda go off rushin’ here, rushin’ there telling everybody who will listen about Christianity… and tellin’ a whole buncha people that don’t want to hear about it too.

Terry: Well, is that like bad? I mean, isn’t that what we want to do—tell everyone about Jesus?

Phil: Hey sure, and let me tell ya, I talk Christianity with outsiders as much as the next guy. But I use common sense in who I tell.

Terry: Outsiders?

Phil: Ya, like guys who aren’t goin’ to church.

Terry: You mean witnessing to non-Christians?

Phil: Terry, look, it’s nice seein’ you excited about bein’ a part of our outreach and all, but I gotta caution you—outsiders don’t like the tags some of the church folks use… like witnessin’ and non-Christians and stuff like that.

Terry: Well, what do you suggest we say when we talk to them about Jesus?

Phil: Well one for-sure thing is—don’t go usin’ the “Jesus” word too soon. Offends folks is what. Wait ‘til they’ve been in church for a year or two, then it’s usually safe to use the “Jesus” word… mostly.

[Margaret looks at Phil, frowns, then moves on.]

Margaret: Speaking of outreach, did everyone hand out the four study Bibles you each were given at the last meeting?

Sam: Sure did! I could have used two or three more…

Terry: Could we get more tonight? I have some guys on our street I would like to…

Phil: ‘Fraid I am just not too comfortable with that—handin’ out Bibles to just anyone… puts people off is what it does.

Margaret: So you didn’t hand out your Bibles, Phil?

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