Lights of the World

Review

Last week we learned about the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:1-12).

We were challenged to give our troubles to God.

Who remembered to pray?

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Introduction

Today we are going to learn about the importance of representing Jesus as His followers.

We all follow somebody (parents, teachers, social media, etc.).

If you were in a burning building, wouldn’t you want to know the way out?

Now that you have escaped by following Jesus, He is sending us back in to help others follow Him.

Who first introduced you to Jesus?

We preserve the world by obeying Jesus (which includes loving others and telling them about Him).

Handouts

Passage

Christian Standard Bible Chapter 5

BELIEVERS ARE SALT AND LIGHT

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt should lose its taste, how can it be made salty? It’s no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.

14 “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

Main Points

Salt is used to preserve and add taste.

It preserves our faith in Jesus and adds spiritual blessings to a world disconnected from God.

These include joy, peace, and love.

If we don’t share our faith in Jesus, it is worthless.

If I gave you $100 but you could never spend it...

1. Christians preserve a decaying world by telling people about Jesus.

In John 8:12, Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.” As Christians, we now reflect His light!

It can be fun playing games in the dark.

But if you were trying to escape from that burning building, wouldn’t you want to see your way out?

2. A follower of Jesus acts as a light in a world of darkness.

If we are to change the world for good, we Christians must take action.

That is why Jesus gave the command to do good deeds for others.

When I was deployed, God used me as a light unto others.

When we are different from those around us, it makes them wonder why.

3. Christians can point others to God through their good deeds.

Application

This week, I will do at least one random act of kindness for someone who does not know Jesus.

Questions