Some of the most basic teaching Jesus provided is some of the most important. All believers know the teaching of salt and light; but how many of us truly take the message to heart and attempt to apply it to our daily lives? As ambassadors of Jesus Christ, we have to be aware of our influence on those around us and seek to nurture and maintain our true Christian persona according to the teachings of Jesus. The teaching of salt and light paints a graphic picture of our responsibility as disciples of Jesus. We all would do well to consider this important teaching carefully and adjust our personality to better fit what Jesus expects from his students.
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.” Matthew 5:13 (NASB)
Salt naturally stimulates thirst and helps to ensure the proper consumption of water. Jesus wants his followers to create a thirst in others to know the Lord; we do this through our words and actions. We are told that our persona without salt is “no longer good for anything.” Clearly, our mission as followers of Jesus Christ is to maintain a constant witness through Christ-like behavior.
Jesus also teaches that believers are to be a light in the midst of darkness. When we serve God by serving others with a joyous spirit, our Christian persona reveals the truth of the gospel.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 (NASB)
It should be impossible to hide the radiance of a true believer. Our Christian faith should be obvious to everyone we come into contact with throughout our day. Christianity is not something that is hidden from view.
“Nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” Matthew 5:15 (NASB)
The gospel is a message of hope for all and should be shared at every opportunity through word and deed. Followers of Jesus Christ are blessed and expected to share that blessing with others. What we say and what we do should lead others to Jesus and glorify our heavenly Father.
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (NASB)
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