What Christians Should Be

Salt & Light: The Call of Influence

Bible Passage: Matthew 5:13-16

Summary: In this passage, Jesus teaches His followers that they are the salt of the earth and the light of the world, emphasizing their vital roles in a world that needs preservation and illumination.

Application: This lesson should inspire us to embrace our identity in Christ, encouraging us to actively engage with our communities, embodying the love and truth of the gospel in our actions and relationships.

Teaching: The lesson will teach that Christians are not merely passive recipients of grace but active agents of change, called to enhance the world around them and to reflect the character of Christ in every aspect of their lives.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the grand narrative of Scripture, Jesus is the ultimate source of light (John 8:12) and fulfills the covenantal promises, enabling us to be salt and light to others through His transformative power.

Big Idea: Christians are called to be impactful influencers in their communities, reflecting Christ’s light and preserving the values of His kingdom.

1. Preserve with Purpose

Matthew 5:13

emphasize how being 'salt' entails living a life that preserves and enhances the goodness in the world.

Ate breakfast illustration

As followers of Christ, we are called to bring His transformative power into the decay of the world.

how salt, in ancient times, was essential for preserving food and adding flavor, similarly we are essential in preserving the integrity and values of the Kingdom, displaying love and truth in our actions.

ILLUSTRATION: In Scripture, salt symbolizes purity and enduring quality. When we think about our role as salt in this world, it’s vital to consider what kind of 'salt' we are being to others. Are we enhancing their lives, or are we blending in with the world? This is a serious question as it speaks to our identity as Christians. If we lose our saltiness, how can we expect to make a difference? We must shine brightly and truly reflect Christ's love.

2. Illuminate with Intention

Matthew 5:14-15

discuss how being 'light' involves illuminating darkness by reflecting the truth and love of Christ.

Darkness with a little bit of light

Christians are called to shine brightly, exposing and dispelling spiritual darkness and drawing others to the hope found in Jesus.

This point would incorporate the cultural context of light as guidance, safety, and revelation, challenging believers to stand boldly as public testimonies of Christ’s salvation and grace, living as beacons of hope and love in their communities.

ILLUSTRATION: In a small town, there was a lamp that sat outside a general store. Every night, it cast warm light onto the sidewalk, guiding passersby home. One stormy evening, the lamp flickered and nearly went out. The store owner, realizing it’s importance, rushed outside to relight it. Like the lamp in the storm, we are called to be a beacon of hope and light in a dark world, reflecting Christ's love through our actions and words.

3. Impact through Action

Matthew 5:16

This verse is a call to tangible action within our everyday lives.

Highlight how authentic Christian living acts as a witness to God’s goodness, inviting those watching to consider the truths of His Kingdom.

It's not about seeking personal glory but demonstrating God’s glory

Remember the verse I must decrease but He must increase that should be a daily given within our lives this morning

We should live obediently and visibly for Christ's cause.

Personal illustration