Christians as “Salt & Light” of the World (Matthew 5:13-16)

Christians as “Salt & Light” of the World (Matthew 5:13-16)

Christians as the “Salt of the Earth”:

Matthew 5 verse 13 says, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavour, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men” (NKJV).

In the gospel according to Matthew, Jesus taught that Christians are the salt of the world, but, if salt loses its taste, it becomes worthless. Salt has many important uses so we can see why Jesus Christ refers to Christians as the “Salt of the Earth”.

Salt is used to add and bring out the flavour of food, as Christians we are to add and bring out the divine flavour of this world. Salt can also be used to purify an open wound, as Christians, we are to help purify the evil in the world even though it will sting (like salt) when we do so. Most importantly, Salt is used as a preservative to stop food from decaying, as Christians we are supposed to serve as preservatives of the world and stop the moral decay caused by sin on earth.

Christians are supposed to be agents of preserving and improving the quality of Christian life on Earth, so that we have a good relationship between us and God, and also among ourselves.

Christians as the “Light of the World”:

Matthew 5 verses 14-15 says, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house” (NKJV).

The way we live our lives as Christians is an example to others. Through our Christian way of life, non-believers can see and feel God’s presence. Light is useless when it is covered, therefore, we should not be shy about the fact we serve and worship God. When we serve God with pure hearts, love others as we love ourselves and do good without getting tired, we are bright lights shining in the world. This has the power to convert non-believers of Christ to Christianity because they experience God’s goodness, love and mercy through us.

Wherever we find ourselves as Christians (whether at school, work, or church) we are surrounded by people who are living in darkness (or evil). They are separated from our God who loves them dearly. God uses us as His children, to shine our light (by the way we live our lives) in the darkness (or evil) to show non-believers the way to Christ.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven“

Matthew 5:16