Light the Way

Matthew 5:13-20

Main idea: In Matthew 5:1-12 Jesus presents the blessing of God in a new way to the crowds that were following Him. His hearers would’ve understood that the blessings of the kingdom were not just for those with position and power, but for everyone. In this next passage of scripture Jesus shares that it’s these very people; the meek, broken-hearted, hungry, peacemakers, merciful, persecuted, etc… that are the salt and light of the world. It’s their job, and our job, to light the way for others so that all may come to Christ.

Scripture: Matthew 5:13-20, Philippians 2:12-16, Psalm 119:105, Leviticus 2:13, Mark 9:49

Introduction

Have you ever been lost? What did you do? How did you find your way again?

Story - Share about a time when you were lost. Where were you and what was happening? How did you find your way again? Did you ask someone for help? Did you get out a map? Did you ask Siri for directions? Make the point that you needed help, a map, directions, etc… in order to find your way again.

Chances are good we’ve all been lost before. Chances are also good that, like me, you needed to get help in some form or fashion in order to find your way again. Some of you had to get directions from an actual person, an expert in the area, who knew the way… And I’m sure you were elated when they were able to give you perfectly articulated instructions to the exact place you wanted to be; “Just go about three miles down this road, turn right at the red barn, head another half mile down and the place you want is on the right… Oh, and if you hit the field of dandelions you’ll know you want too far.”

It’s this level of accuracy that lets you know you’re dealing with someone who’s traveled the road you’re looking for. They know it well, they understand the twists and turns. They also know when you’ve missed it, and what you’ll see if you do. These types of people are ‘guides’ and they light the way for those of us who’re lost.

In our passage today Jesus identifies all kinds of people who are “lights” for others…and it makes perfect sense that Jesus would be able to rightly identify this particular type of person; An expert who can help guide others when they’re lost.

The problem is that the kinds of people who Jesus thinks are experts don’t have any training or credentials to lead others. Or at least none that we know of. He says they’re poor in spirit, meek, merciful, hungry and thirsty… He calls them “the salt of the earth,” and “the light of the world.” He must know something we don't and as we’ll see today, He wants to teach us how to light the way for others.

Cross is a call to discipleship that is lifelong, a dying to self, picking up your cross and following Him…. following His commands, His order of the way things should go, focusing on Him throughout your day, etc…

Main Teaching

Read Matthew 5:13-16

Matthew 5:13–16 NKJV

13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 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. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

As we read this passage it’s important to keep in mind that the “you” of verse 13 and 14 is a 2nd person plural noun, and could be better translated as “y’all.” Jesus is saying, “y’all are the salt of the earth…y’all are the light of the world” And the y’all people that Jesus is referring to are all those folks listed in verses 5:2-12. The poor in spirit, meek, merciful, hungry, thirsty, persecuted and others. This list of people would’ve stood in stark contrast to the kinds of people traditionally seen in the culture as those who possessed salt and light. Those who had the ability and training to lead others in matters of morality and spirituality. So what exactly is the significance of salt? Of light? And what exactly does Jesus want us to do as we follow Him today?

The Salt of the Earth

Let’s begin with the phrase "salt of the earth" which is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who is honest, hardworking, and down-to-earth. It also refers to the idea that salt is a basic and essential ingredient, and that people who are "the salt of the earth" are similarly fundamental and valuable members of society. Again, this would’ve been a shocking revelation to those listening to Jesus here in Matthew 5… To be referred to as fundamental and valuable.

The “salt of the earth” also implies that this person is someone who is dependable, reliable and trustworthy, and that they bring a sense of stability and integrity to the people around them.

In short, this passage can be understood as Jesus saying that his followers have a special role to play in the world, and that they must be careful to maintain their integrity and effectiveness. The poor in spirit, meek, merciful, hungry, thirsty, persecuted and others are fundamental and valuable members of society. To call someone "the salt of the earth" is to express a deep respect and admiration for their character and values, and to acknowledge their importance in the community.

Going even further, it’s important to remember that salt has been an important commodity throughout history. It’s likely that it was used for a variety of purposes in the time of Jesus Christ. Some possible uses of salt in ancient times include:

Preservation of food: Salt was used to preserve meat and fish, as it helped to remove moisture and inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Seasoning: Salt was used to add flavor to food, and it was likely an important ingredient in many ancient dishes.

Medicinal uses: Salt was believed to have healing properties, and it was used to treat a variety of ailments, such as sore throats and skin conditions.

Religious and cultural significance: Salt was considered a symbol of purity and was often used in religious rituals, such as the Jewish ceremony of the "Covenant of Salt."

Trade: Salt was a valuable commodity, and it was traded over long distances.

As far as I can tell, with all of this in mind, it would’ve been an unbelievable compliment from Jesus to be called, “the salt of the earth.” What a feeling to be seen as valuable, useful, and integral in a community that often pushed aside those who were poor in spirit, meek, merciful, hungry, thirsty, persecuted, and reviled. Instead of pushing these people aside, Jesus essentially says, “you’re necessary and needed.” And in the next verse, He tells them exactly what they’re to do when He calls them the “light of the world.”

The Light of the World

In Matthew 5:14 Jesus says, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."

This statement can be understood in a few different ways, but one possible interpretation is that Jesus is saying that his disciples, and by extension, all believers, have a responsibility to spread the message of God's love and salvation to others. By living a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus, they can be a shining example of righteousness and goodness to those who are lost, and can help to guide people towards a deeper understanding of God.

The metaphor of light also brings a sense of direction and purpose, as light illuminates the way and helps one to find their way in darkness. Especially when you’re lost. Jesus is asking his disciples to be guides for others, to help them find their way to God and salvation.

In a culture where only the religious elites were given this responsibility, it’s hard to understate how shocking this would’ve been. Add to this that instead of being told to stay out of sight and out of mind, Jesus compares them to a “a city on a hill that cannot be hidden,” and I imagine you had a lot of folks filled with encouragement and purpose at this moment during Jesus’ teaching.

A. THE TRUTH 1. Light is a very common metaphor in the Bible. Along with darkness, light is often used to contrast knowledge and ignorance.

2. Here, it almost certainly stands for the world’s opportunity to perceive the truth about Jesus. The world is “in the dark” about God, but Christians “turn on the light.”

3. Light allows people to see. We can’t see without light. Christians show the world how much God loves them and what Jesus has done to restore their relationship with him.

B. LIGHT ILLUMINATES THE WAY

1. We are meant to be conspicuous to others; “A city set on a hill cannot be hid.” Other’s eyes are to be upon us. A light bulb has no other purpose, nor do we! God takes obscure men & women, dignifies them with His character and puts them on display.

2. Lights are used to mark streets. Ever been through a town when the power was out? It’s very confusing and unnerving. Airport runways are marked with landing lights. Ports have their channels marked by channel markers.

3. All these lights show the way to the desired destination. In the same way we Christians are to mark the way to heaven/ Jesus. If people follow our example, they should be able to please God.

C. TAKING THE MORAL LEAD

1. Christians must set the example. Suppose there is a group of people and someone suggests some they do some bad things. Unless someone speaks up and protests, the wrong action will be acted upon.

2. But if someone rises and says, “I will not be a party to that,” then another may rise to say, Neither will I.” Christians must take the lead and not remain silent.

3. Many people in this world do not have the moral strength to take a stand by themselves, but if someone shows them the way, they will follow. It’s the Christian’s duty to take a stand.

E. OUR LIGHT: ONLY HOPE FOR THE WORLD

1. G. Campbell Morgan said that “the church did the most for the world when the church was the least like the world.” Today, many churches have the idea they must imitate the world in order to reach the world.

2. A nation will not decay and collapse because of the people who peddle pornography or illicit drugs, but because of Christians who are no longer as salt and light. Sinners will act like sinners.

3. When saints begin acting like sinners, their compromise hurts not only themselves and their families and churches, but also contributes to the decay of the entire nation. Are you convicted yet?

A second purpose of light is to:

Warning Light (v. 15)

A. WARNING LIGHTS

1. Lights are often used to warn us that danger is ahead. Intersections are marked with flashing yellow or red lights. When vehicles break down, we put flares in the road. Police cars, wreckers, fire trucks and ambulances are covered with warning lights. For airplanes, there are warning lights on top of all the tall structures so the pilots are alerted to the danger.

2. We Christians are to be the warning lights to unbelievers. This doesn’t mean we’re to be standing around with a flashing light, rather we’re to “speak the truth in love” Eph. 4:15.

3. It’s the Christian’s duty to warn those around us. This is often hard to do it in a way which will not do more harm than good.

4. If our warnings are given – not in anger, or irritation, or criticism, or condemnation, but in love, they will be effective.

C. DANGER OF INSUFFICIENT LIGHT/WARNING

WALKING ONE NIGHT, NO LIGHT, ALMOST STEPPED ON A SNAKE.... NO WARNING UNTIL WAS TOO LATE!!

Helping Light (v. 16)

A. WITNESS BY WORKS

1. It is not only our words that should teach the Gospel, but also our actions/ lifestyle. Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel at all times and if necessary use words.” His point was that it should NOT be our words that preach the Gospel, but our actions!

2. In a world filled with non-stop rhetoric, actions speak louder than words! People will not be convinced by our words (“talk is cheap”), they’ll be convinced of Christ’s reality by our good works.

B. WHAT ARE GOOD DEEDS?

1. First, “good works” means doing the right thing and not the wrong thing in every circumstance.

2. Secondly, “exemplary actions” to lost people would mean doing the sacrificial thing, preferring others before yourself. If both of you arrive at the parking spot at the same time, let the other person have it. If people are waiting to enter a clogged lane, let one in ahead of you. One A/G pastor used to always say, “You can really tell how Christian someone is when they’re driving.”

3. Thirdly, be a giver instead of a taker. If you see someone in need, give them some money. If they need food, take them to the store I buy some for them. “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be [recognized as] sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked” Luke 6:35.

4. Fourth, be a server. Serve people. If we have no other way of doing good – say, if we’re poor & uneducated, we still can do good by our lives. No sincere and humble Christian lives in vain. The feeblest light at midnight is of use.

5. Ordinary people don’t do these things, so your behavior will be perceived as that of a child of God. The Life of Christ in you will be revealed.

C. GENUINE DEEDS WILL GLORIFY GOD

1. When we do good works, we should be careful to point people to God who inspired them, lest the recipients give us the credit, instead of God.

2. Jesus’ admonition was, “…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” We must be careful to give God the glory for everything He enables us to do. “The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives” Prov. 27:21.

He is asking his disciples to be a visible and evident presence in the world, not to hide their faith or keep it to themselves, but to let it shine and be known. The apostle Paul picks up this same idea in Philippians 2:15-16

Philippians 2:15–16 NKJV

15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

Cling to Jesus, shine the light of the gospel, for you are the “salt of the earth.”

Light the Way for Others

Jesus is calling his disciples both then and now to be a gospel influence in the world and to share the message of salvation with others through their words and actions.

Where can you shine this week?

Where can you encourage others in the gospel?

Where can you love others like Jesus has loved?

These are the questions we keep at top of mind as we follow Jesus through life. And when you feel discouraged or frustrated, as you most certainly will at some point, remember that Jesus is the fulfillment of scripture. He is the promise, come to life, raised from the dead, interceding at the right hand of God on your behalf. Trust Him.

Conclusion

As we wrap up in our passage let’s read the last section together.

Read Matthew 5:17-20

Matthew 5:17–20 NKJV

17 “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18 For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. 19 Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.

Did you catch where Jesus says “not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” He’s saying that He will finish the job He came to do. He will see it through to the very end…and He’s building a church of redeemed saints to help in the project.

You don’t have to have a PHD, you don’t have to be a rabbi, you don’t have to have Greek or Hebrew training. Jesus is calling the poor in spirit, meek, merciful, hungry, thirsty, persecuted and others…He’s calling all of us. You are the salt of the earth! You are valuable and your testimony matters! Shine bright friends, and let the gospel reflect throughout your life as the lost find their way and sinners are saved.