It is kind of funny to remember the images that came to our minds as children when we first heard some of the stories in the Bible. The first time I heard of being “Salt and Light,” I thought of my favorite snacks, especially popcorn. As Christians, we are like the yummy, buttery, salty topping that makes movie popcorn so awesome!

As we have grown into adults, the popcorn analogy is still there, but the meaning of Christ’s instruction to us has grown so much deeper. We have a responsibility, yet also a privilege to make an impact on the world around us. We have the ability to influence everyone in some way with whom we come in contact, and we may leave them better or worse as a result. What an honor, yet also, what a weighty responsibility!

I also find it interesting that Jesus chose both salt and light. I wonder why He chose these specific metaphors for the influence we will have on this world?

Something I think about is that salt makes us thirsty. For example, we wouldn’t think of buying a giant bucket of salty popcorn at the movie theater without also buying a huge soft drink. That popcorn will suck all the moisture out of your body and make you crave something to drink. Nothing like a huge Dr. Pepper to satisfy!

In the same way, when people observe our lives, we should live in such a way, that it will make them also want what we have. We must represent Christ in a way that will cause others to also be thirsty for Him, the only source of living water that will truly satisfy their souls.

Then, as lights, we can shine the way. The aisle lights in the movie theater illuminate the path so you can find your way to get more snacks and drinks. Similarly, once we have provided a taste of Christ to this sin-parched world as agents of salt, our lives must also light the way for them to find Him.

See how salt and light can work together?

What are some other purposes of salt? Before refrigeration was available, salt was used to preserve meat and keep it fresh longer. It draws out impurities and can be used as a disinfectant. Salt tastes good and brings out the natural flavors of our food. Salt has been used to establish binding covenants, as currency, and as an ingredient in ceremonial sacrifices and offerings. Perhaps the symbolism may even go as far as spreading the Gospel as salt is scattered from a shaker.

The symbolism of light brings up different qualities that complete this picture. The first thing that comes to my mind is to turn on a light when you enter a dark room so you can see where you are going. It prevents you from stubbing your toe on the furniture or falling over a toy left on the floor. Does our light help prevent others from falling over obstacles? Various types of light can also set the atmosphere. For example, bright lights can make a fun, celebratory atmosphere for a party, while soft lamps or candles can make a warm and cozy atmosphere for our homes. What kind of atmosphere do we bring into a room? Light also reveals what is unclean. For example, light allows you to see clearly to vacuum or mop your floors more thoroughly. The light reveals the dirt so you can get rid of it.

Billboards along the interstate, or signs within the city are usually lit up so people can read them. What good would an advertisement for a restaurant be if no one could read it? How many customers do you think it would attract?

As you consider these uses of salt and light, how do these correspond to our lifestyle? How then does this effect the way we act, the words we say, and the way we treat others? Do we leave a good or bad taste wherever we go? Does our lifestyle light up the way to Christ? We will discuss this and more in our small groups this week, and I hope to see you there!

Week 3 Assignments

Read Matthew 5-7
Study Week 4: “You Have Heard That It Was Said…” Part 1, pp. 46-59, and Matthew 5:21-30.
Attend a small group.
Watch my video for this week.
Memorize this week’s Bible verse, Matthew 5:20 ESV:

For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Week 3 Discussion Questions

Here is a sneak peek of the questions we will be discussing this week in our small groups.

You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. Matthew 5:13 ESV

QUESTION 1: On Day 2, we read about several occurrences of salt in Scripture. Why do you think Jesus chose salt in His sermon? What are some of the things salt symbolizes? And, what are some of the practical ways we can be salt in this world?

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 ESV

QUESTION 2: (Day 3) What are some functions of light in the natural world? How does the analogy of light illustrate the role of Jesus’ disciples in the world? In other words, what are some practical ways we can shine our light?

QUESTION 3: What are some things that hold us back from shining our light or can dim our light in this world? How can we protect our light?

QUESTION 4: (Day 4) What did you learn of the purpose of the Law? How does Jesus relate to the Law? Is the Law still necessary? Why?

QUESTION 5: What sort of righteousness could ever exceed that of the Pharisees?

QUESTION 6: What impacted you most from this week’s study?

Reading Schedule

Skip Week 1 in the book; Optional video
August 28 – September 3, Study Week 2: “Who Is Blessed?” pp. 14-29; Matthew 5:1-12
- Small groups: Introduction. No need to ready anything ahead of time.
September 4-10, Study Week 3: “A People of Influence,” pp. 30-45; Matthew 5:13-20
- Small groups: Discuss Week 2
September 11-17, Study Week 4: “You Have Heard That It Was Said…” Part 1, pp. 46-59; Matthew 5:21-30
- Small groups: Discuss Week 3
September 18-24, Study Week 5: “You Have Heart That It Was Said…” Part 2, pp. 60-73; Matthew 5:31-48
- Small groups: Discuss Week 4
September 25 – October 1, Study Week 6: “Secret Righteousness,” pp. 74-89; Matthew 6:1-18
- Small groups: Discuss Week 5
October 2-8, Study Week 7: “Where Your Treasure Is,” pp. 90-105; Matthew 6:19-34
- Small groups: Discuss Week 6
October 9-15, Study Week 8: “Do Unto Others,” pp. 106-121; Matthew 7:1-12
- Small groups: Discuss Week 7
October 16-22, Study Week 9: “A Foundation That Endures,” pp. 122-137; Matthew 7:13-29
- Small groups: Discuss Week 8
October 23-29: Catch Up Week and Finish Study
- Small groups: Discuss Week 9

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