Called to Be Salt and Light in the World
Summary
### Summary
Today's message focused on the profound truth that as followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to be both salt and light in the world. These metaphors, used by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, encapsulate our role and purpose as Christians. Salt, in biblical times, was a precious commodity, used for preservation, flavoring, and purification. Similarly, we are to preserve the moral fabric of society, enhance the lives of those around us, and bring the purifying truth of the Gospel into a world marred by sin and corruption.
Being salt means we are essential and valuable in God's plan, acting as a preserving agent in a decaying world. We bring flavor to life, enhancing the experiences of those around us by pointing them to the source of all goodness—God Himself. Moreover, we purify, bringing the truth of God's Word into environments filled with lies and deception.
In addition to being salt, we are also called to be light. Light illuminates, guides, and exposes. As light, we bring the illuminating truth of the Gospel into dark places, guide others towards Christ, and expose the deeds of darkness. Our lives should be a beacon, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden, proclaiming the glory of God to the entire world.
To live out this calling, we must focus on our identity in Christ, fill our conversations with eternal perspectives, and fine-tune our priorities to align with our purpose as salt and light. This is not about doing more or being better, but about remembering who we are in Christ and living out that identity boldly and faithfully.
### Key Takeaways
1. Salt Preserves: As Christians, we are called to be a preserving force in a decaying world. Just as salt prevents decay, our presence should hinder the spread of moral and spiritual corruption. This means actively living out our faith and upholding God's standards in our daily lives. [40:55]
2. Salt Flavors: Our lives should enhance the experiences of those around us by bringing joy, peace, hope, and love. This is not about being overtly religious but about living in such a way that others see the goodness of God through us. We should be the reason people see the world differently, with a sense of awe and gratitude towards God. [44:01]
3. Salt Purifies: We bring the purifying truth of the Gospel into environments filled with lies and deception. This involves standing firm in our beliefs and not compromising on the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Our lives should be a testament to the purity and holiness of God. [49:34]
4. Light Illuminates and Guides: As light, we bring the illuminating truth of the Gospel into dark places and guide others towards Christ. This means being vocal about our faith and pointing people to the hope and salvation found in Jesus. We are like a lit-up runway, showing the lost world where to land. [01:04:20]
5. Light Exposes: Light exposes the deeds of darkness, and as Christians, we are called to shine the light of truth in a world filled with sin. This involves not participating in the unfruitful deeds of darkness but instead exposing them. Our lives should be a clear contrast to the world, showing what it means to live in the light of Christ. [01:05:46]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[30:55] - Introduction to Salt and Light
[31:28] - The Value of Salt
[32:01] - Salt Preserves
[32:41] - Salt Flavors
[33:20] - Salt Purifies
[33:53] - The Influence of Salt
[35:33] - The Role of Light
[36:46] - Light Illuminates
[38:05] - Light Guides
[39:23] - Light Exposes
[40:55] - Application: Living as Salt and Light
[42:34] - Communion
[44:01] - Closing Prayer and Doxology
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 5:13-16 (ESV)
> "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
2. Ephesians 5:11 (ESV)
> "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them."
3. James 1:2-4 (ESV)
> "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the three primary functions of salt as described in the sermon? ([40:55])
2. According to the sermon, what does it mean for Christians to be the "light of the world"? ([59:47])
3. How does the sermon explain the concept of salt losing its saltiness? ([56:50])
4. What are the three things that light does, as mentioned in the sermon? ([01:01:17])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the metaphor of salt preserving relate to the Christian's role in society? ([40:55])
2. In what ways can Christians bring "flavor" to the lives of those around them, according to the sermon? ([42:34])
3. What does it mean for light to expose the deeds of darkness, and how should Christians approach this task? ([01:05:46])
4. How does focusing on our identity in Christ help us live out our calling as salt and light? ([01:07:30])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your daily life. In what specific ways can you act as a preserving force in your community or workplace? ([40:55])
2. Think of a recent situation where you had the opportunity to bring joy, peace, hope, or love to someone. How did you respond, and how might you respond differently in the future to better "flavor" their life? ([42:34])
3. Are there environments in your life where you feel the need to stand firm in your beliefs and not compromise on the truth? How can you prepare yourself to be a purifying presence in those situations? ([49:34])
4. Identify a "dark place" in your life where you can bring the illuminating truth of the Gospel. What steps can you take this week to shine your light in that area? ([01:04:20])
5. Have you ever felt hesitant to expose the deeds of darkness? What fears or concerns hold you back, and how can you overcome them to fulfill your role as light? ([01:05:46])
6. How can you fill your conversations with eternal perspectives without coming across as overly religious or using "Christianese"? Think of a specific conversation you can have this week. ([01:09:09])
7. Review your current priorities. What changes can you make to better align them with your purpose as salt and light? Consider your time, finances, and relationships. ([01:12:30])
Devotional
Day 1: Preserving the Moral Fabric
As Christians, we are called to be a preserving force in a decaying world. Just as salt prevents decay, our presence should hinder the spread of moral and spiritual corruption. This means actively living out our faith and upholding God's standards in our daily lives. In a world where moral values are constantly shifting, we are to stand firm and be the steadying influence that points others to the unchanging truth of God's Word. Our actions, words, and decisions should reflect the holiness and righteousness of God, serving as a testament to His enduring truth.
By being salt, we are essential and valuable in God's plan. Our role is not passive but active, requiring us to engage with the world around us in a way that preserves its moral integrity. This might mean standing up for what is right, even when it is unpopular, or offering a different perspective that aligns with biblical principles. Our lives should be a living example of God's standards, providing a counterbalance to the moral decay that surrounds us. [40:55]
Matthew 5:13 (ESV): "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you actively preserve the moral fabric of your community this week? Identify one area where you can make a stand for God's truth.
Day 2: Enhancing Lives with God's Goodness
Our lives should enhance the experiences of those around us by bringing joy, peace, hope, and love. This is not about being overtly religious but about living in such a way that others see the goodness of God through us. We should be the reason people see the world differently, with a sense of awe and gratitude towards God. By embodying the fruits of the Spirit, we can positively influence those we encounter, making their lives richer and more meaningful.
Being salt means that our presence adds flavor to life. Just as salt enhances the taste of food, our lives should enhance the lives of others. This involves being a source of encouragement, offering a listening ear, and showing kindness and compassion. When we live out our faith authentically, people will be drawn to the goodness of God that they see in us, and they will be more open to experiencing His love and grace. [44:01]
Colossians 4:6 (ESV): "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."
Reflection: Think of one person in your life who needs encouragement. How can you bring joy, peace, hope, or love to them today in a tangible way?
Day 3: Purifying with the Truth of the Gospel
We bring the purifying truth of the Gospel into environments filled with lies and deception. This involves standing firm in our beliefs and not compromising on the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Our lives should be a testament to the purity and holiness of God. In a world where truth is often relative and subjective, we are called to uphold the absolute truth of God's Word and to live in a way that reflects His purity.
Being salt means that we have a purifying effect on the world around us. Just as salt was used for purification in biblical times, we are to bring the cleansing truth of the Gospel to those who are lost and deceived. This requires courage and conviction, as we may face opposition and criticism. However, by remaining steadfast in our faith and uncompromising in our commitment to God's truth, we can be a powerful witness to His holiness and righteousness. [49:34]
Psalm 119:9 (ESV): "How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you have compromised on the truth? How can you recommit to living out the purity and holiness of God in those areas?
Day 4: Illuminating and Guiding with the Gospel
As light, we bring the illuminating truth of the Gospel into dark places and guide others towards Christ. This means being vocal about our faith and pointing people to the hope and salvation found in Jesus. We are like a lit-up runway, showing the lost world where to land. Our lives should be a beacon, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden, proclaiming the glory of God to the entire world.
Being light means that we have a guiding role in the lives of others. Just as light illuminates the path and helps people find their way, we are to guide others towards the truth of the Gospel. This involves sharing our faith, offering spiritual guidance, and being a source of hope and encouragement. By living out our faith boldly and authentically, we can help others see the light of Christ and find their way to Him. [01:04:20]
Ephesians 5:8-9 (ESV): "For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true)."
Reflection: Who in your life is searching for direction or hope? How can you be a guiding light for them, pointing them towards the truth and salvation found in Jesus?
Day 5: Exposing the Deeds of Darkness
Light exposes the deeds of darkness, and as Christians, we are called to shine the light of truth in a world filled with sin. This involves not participating in the unfruitful deeds of darkness but instead exposing them. Our lives should be a clear contrast to the world, showing what it means to live in the light of Christ. By living out our faith with integrity and transparency, we can reveal the truth and expose the lies and deception that pervade our culture.
Being light means that we have a responsibility to expose the darkness around us. This requires discernment and courage, as we may face resistance and hostility. However, by remaining faithful to God's truth and living out our faith with boldness, we can be a powerful witness to the transforming power of the Gospel. Our lives should be a testament to the light of Christ, shining brightly in a world that desperately needs His truth and love. [01:05:46]
Ephesians 5:11-13 (ESV): "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you have been hesitant to expose the darkness? How can you shine the light of Christ more boldly in those areas, revealing the truth and bringing hope to those around you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "You are salt and you are light. Those aren't two things that you hope to be that are kind of hypotheticals for a Christian and that, you know, if you do these things, then just maybe you might get there. No, no, no. If you are a blood-bought Christian, if you have said, I believe in Jesus Christ by faith first and foremost, then you are a Christian. If you are a Christian, I am a follower of Jesus. It's not a hypothetical that you're going to be these things. You actually are these things. You are salt and you are light." [36:46] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Salt preserves. The earth is decaying because of corruption, because of the effects of sin. There's brokenness. There's pain all over the earth, and salt comes in and actually hinders that process. It delays it. It puts a stop to where the decay process is at. That tells us right away that God has a purpose for us, on the earth today. If He didn't have this purpose, we wouldn't be here. You and I are meant to be a preserving mechanism on the earth." [40:55] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Christianity in itself, you, the people of God, you bring joy, peace, hope, and love into a dull and bland life. You know, I'm in this season of life where I'm just, I'm getting old, right? I'm pushing 40, and so I do a lot of weird things now. I'm into salt right now. That's why this text couldn't have been more timely. I'm really into salt." [42:34] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You are the light of the world, he says in verse 14. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden, nor does anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket, but on the lampstand and gives light to all who are in the house. I love the picture that he uses. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. You know what this means? It means a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. You know what this means? city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Everybody sees it. There's no hiding who you are." [01:01:17] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Light illuminates. You walk into a dark room, you turn the lights on, and suddenly everything is seeable. This is what we do. We bring the light of the gospel into every single situation, wherever we are. The light of the good news of Jesus Christ." [01:02:52] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "You are salt. That's the statement. Verse 13, you are the salt of the earth. Jesus continues, but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It's no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under the sun. I think one of the most important questions that we can ask right off the bat of this particular text is, why in the world does Jesus choose salt?" [38:05] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Salt does not change corruption into incorruption, but it does prevent corruption from spreading. How's that for application? It is used to hold decay and putrefaction at bay. That is what you and I are supposed to be. That is what we are supposed to do. That's what happens through our life. You are salt. Salt preserves." [40:55] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Salt flavors. It flavors. In this regard, we'd say this. Salt doesn't just preserve. It doesn't just prevent further decay. It flavors, or if you will, it enhances everything around it. Christianity in itself, you, the people of God, you bring joy, peace, hope, and love into a dull and bland life." [42:34] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Salt purifies. In those days, salt was a purifying agent, just like it is now in many different ways. You think about even for those of you that have pools or just are aware of the way that pools are, more and more people are switching over from chlorine pools because the chemicals and the harm that they say it can do." [48:03] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You are the light of the world. He's the backlight, if you will. He's shining right through you and illuminating guiding and exposing. So, you got the best thing in the world going for you. Jesus says you're the same thing as Him, meaning what you're called to be and who you are, you have to say, how are we going to do it, Lord? I don't know. Yeah, you do. Well, I'm not enough, Lord. He knows. You're not. Well, what about? No, no. He is the light of the world, and in effect, then, you are the light of the world. So, just go be what you are and be who you are." [01:06:30] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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