Salt & Light

Posted on March 1, 2019 by Mike

If you are a follower of Jesus Christ, you have a particular influence on this world that needs to be nurtured and maintained. Jesus made this clear during His Sermon on the Mount. He used two specific illustrations to paint a graphic picture of our responsibility as His disciples.

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” Matthew 5:13 (NIV)

In Biblical times salt was used to stimulate thirst in an effort to ensure the proper consumption of fluids. Jesus was letting believers know that through their words and actions they are to create a thirst in others to know the Lord. He concluded his statement by making the point that without that “saltiness” believers are worthless. This makes it imperative for believers to maintain a constant witness through Christ-like behavior.

Jesus went on to describe believers as light in the midst of darkness. The joyous spirit of believers along with their good deeds reveals the truth of the gospel.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 (NIV)

Indeed, it is not possible to hide the radiance of a true believer. Jesus was telling those listening that His followers should share the gospel with the world. Christianity is not something you hide in a closet or cover with a blanket.

“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” Matthew 5:15 (NIV)

Followers of Jesus Christ have been blessed and are expected to let others know they can be blessed as well. The gospel is a message of hope for all and should be shared at every opportunity. As a believer, what you say and how you act, should lead others to Jesus and glorify your heavenly Father.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

Questions for You to Prayerfully Consider

Answer each question as though you were speaking privately to Jesus. Don’t just answer yes or no, explain your answer completely to yourself and to the Lord.

Jesus taught that believers should stimulate a thirst in others to know the Lord.

Does your life point the way toward Jesus?

Can others see the influence of Jesus in your life?

Do you share the gospel with others in some way?

Are you aware that what you say and how you act reflects on your relationship with God?

Is your life a light that glorifies Jesus?

All scripture references are linked to Bible Gateway so that you can read each verse in context. Bible Gateway allows you to change the verse to your favorite translation and compare it side-by-side with multiple translations. In addition, you can select to hear an audio version of any verse by clicking on the speaker icon. Keep the Bible Gateway App on your phone so that you can visit the Word of God at any time during your day.