Bible Study

Salt and Light of the World

Matthew 5:13-16

In our text, Jesus likens His followers to two common but highly significant things, which are salt and light. These two things are what we cannot do without in life. They are essential to keep life going. Likening christians to the duo means christians are so essential to keep the world going. Let us consider the characteristics of the two things and see how they relate to our lives as Christians.

Salt

• Salt gives flavour to food so that it tastes better. Imagine how it will be eating food without salt. So, like salt, Christians are to make the world a happier and better place.
• Salt is also used to preserve food, making it retain it’s original quality. Then the food does not go bad. In the same way, Christians should make it easier for other people to be good. They should live as God wants them to live.

As good as salt is, the moment it loses its saltiness, it becomes absolutely useless, good for nothing again, not even for the dunghill. Hence as Christians, we must ensure we retain our good character let come what may. Make sure your purity is not contaminated.

"Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other".

Discussion: How does salt lose its saltiness? What is the implication for us as Christians? – Mark 9:50

Light ️

Light is what makes a thing visible. Without light, we cannot see. Light dispels darkness. It exposes things hidden in the dark  A lamp gives light to the people in a dark house. A light also shows the right way to go.
Christians are light in the world. Their good deeds make them the light. They are the model of right living. Hence, they should allow people to see their right actions. As Christians, we should obey God because we believe him. People need to see that in us. Then our light can show people the right way to live.
Light has the characteristics of shining, glowing and giving out radiance. Hence, as Christians, we should shine. Let people know what you stand for. Don’t hide your belief or profession or stance as a believer in Christ (Is 60:1).

Discussion: How do you shine as light in the world?

"Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." 1Pet 2:12

"No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light." Luke 11:33

"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light." Luke 8:16

"He said to them, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand?" Mark 4:21