“Ye are the Salt of the Earth” and “the Light of the World” [podcast]
Salt of the Earth. Light of the World. What Does that Mean?
In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, the phrases “salt of the earth” and “light of the world” are used to describe the role, the impact, and influence of Christians in this world, among men.
Jesus says:
“Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:13-16
“the salt have lost it savour” – This means to become insipid or to lose flavor, vigor, interest.
“Never leave anyone the way you found them.” Let them see JESUS.
Their hearts cry out for Jesus, even if they don’t know yet that it’s Him that they need and are looking for.
“We would see Jesus.” John 12:21
“Ye are …
“The salt of the earth”
salt preserves, salt cleanses, salt flavors
Benefits of Salt: Salt, or sodium chloride, is essential for maintaining overall health, bodily functions, including fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
“Salt is a seasoning and preserving chemical, but if left on the bare earth or exposed to the sun, rain, and air it loses its savor and is worthless (cp. Mrk_9:50; Luk_14:34-35).” Dake
Never let your salt lose its flavor or your light to be covered, to grow dim.
“Quench not the Spirit.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19
“Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? 35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” Luke 14:34-35
“a [Salt is good …] The 33rd parable in Luke (Luk_14:34-35), illustrating the fact that if Christians backslide and lose their savor they are not fit for God or man (Mat_24:51; Mat_25:30; Luk_9:62; Rom_6:16-23; Rom_8:12-13; 1Co_9:27; Gal_5:19-21; Gal_6:7-8; Heb_6:4-9; Heb_10:26-29; 2Pe_2:20-22). Next, Luk_15:4.
b [but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?] Question 101. Next, Luk_15:4. Salt loses its savor when exposed to the rain, sun, and air. What about believers who are the salt of the earth? Is there a possibility of their losing the life that makes them the salt of the earth? If there is no possibility, then there is no meaning to such statements as here and in Mat_5:13; Mrk_9:49-50.” Dake
In this “salt of the earth” parable, Jesus tells His followers that they are meant to be a potent and preserving influence, like salt that preserves and enhances, and to be a source of light, illuminating the world through their actions and lives. The truth is that the lives of salt-of Christ-saints are what results in the salvation, the preservation of eternal souls.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
The Illustration:
Jesus uses the image of “salt of the earth” to describe the role of His followers in the world as they spread His glorious Gospel, obeying His Great Commission mandate.
Purpose of Salt:
In ancient times, salt was used to preserve and add flavor to food.
Meaning for Followers:
Jesus is saying that His followers should make a powerful impact, just like salt, preserving the eternal souls of men by preaching and teaching the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ in their world.
Jesus also says that His followers are “the light of the world,” meaning they should shine brightly in the way they live and as they speak the light of His truth into the hearts of those around them.
“14:34, 35 Salt is a picture of a disciple. There is something wholesome and commendable about a person who is living devotedly and sacrificially for the Lord. But then we read of salt that has lost its flavor. Modern table salt cannot lose its savor because it is pure salt. But in Bible lands, the salt was often mixed with various forms of impurity. Therefore it was possible for salt to be wasted away and for a residue to remain in the container. But this residue was worthless. It could not even be used for fertilizing the land. It had to be discarded.
The picture is of a disciple who starts off brilliantly, and then goes back on his vows. The disciple has one basic reason for existence; if he fails to fulfill that reason, then he is a pitiable object. We read concerning the salt that ‘men throw it out.’ … men throw it out, that is, they trample underfoot the testimony of one who began to build and was not able to finish. Kelly notes:
“There is shown the danger of what begins well turning out ill. What is there in the world so useless as salt when it has lost the one property for which it is valued? It is worse than useless for any other purpose. So with the disciple who ceases to be Christ’s disciple. He is not suited for the world’s purposes, and he has forsaken God’s. He has too much light or knowledge for entering into the vanities and sins of the world, and he has no enjoyment of grace and truth to keep him in the path of Christ. … Savourless salt becomes an object of contempt and judgment.’
The Lord Jesus closed the message on discipleship with the words ‘He who has ears to hear, let him hear!’ These words imply that not everyone will have the willingness to listen to the stringent terms of discipleship. But if a person is willing to follow the Lord Jesus, no matter what the cost may be, then he should hear and follow.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
“5:13 Jesus likened His disciples to salt. They were to the world what salt is in everyday life: salt seasons food; it hinders the spread of corruption; it creates thirst; it brings out the flavor. So His followers add piquancy to human society, serve as a preservative, and make others long for the righteousness described in the preceding verses.
The disciple has one great function—to be the salt of the earth by living out the terms of discipleship listed in the Beatitudes and throughout the rest of the Sermon. If he fails to exhibit this spiritual reality, men will tread his testimony under their feet. The world has only contempt for an undedicated believer.” Believer’s Bible Commentary
Depending on the heart soil of the person the salt (God’s Word) falls on, there will be a reaction. Some will delight. Some will rebel and persecute (vv. 10-12).
Every definition to be found about salt, along with our own personal experience, reveals that salt cleanses and salt preserves. It’s also full of minerals to nourish.
Another source notes the following about Jesus’ people in the earth being “the salt of the earth.”
“In Matthew 5:13, Jesus calls his followers ‘the salt of the earth,’ implying they should positively impact the world, preserving good and enhancing life, much like salt does to food.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Symbolism of Salt:
In Jesus’ time, salt was a valuable commodity used for seasoning, preserving food, and symbolizing purity and covenant.
Preservation and Influence:
By calling his followers ‘salt,’ Jesus suggests they should act as a preserving force in the world, preventing decay and promoting goodness.
Enhancing Life:
Just as salt enhances the flavor of food, Jesus’ followers should positively influence and enrich the lives of others.
Losing Saltiness:
Jesus warns that if followers fail to live out their faith and influence the world positively, they become like ‘tasteless salt,’ useless and discarded.
Living Out Faith:
To remain ‘salty,’ Jesus’ followers are called to live a life of faith, love, and service, making a positive impact on the world around them.”
“The light of the world”
Think about when the electricity goes out. Do you scramble around in the pitch dark to light a candle only to hide it, only to cover, to put something over it? No.
“Bushel” (v. 15) is referring to a basket or barrel, was in covering the light of a candle under it and we know that can lead to that fire being extinguished.
“May our lights shine before men, that they may see our good works, and glorify our Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16.” Karen Cochran
YOUR PRAYER: Father in Jesus’ name, I ask You to forgive my self-idolatry, rebellion, and wickedness and how I’ve done nothing to declare Your truth, to stand up and speak out for the innocent. Please wash me clean in Your precious blood dear LORD. In Jesus’ name.
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“The Knowledge of the Holy is Understanding” [podcast]
“He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.” John 8:47
A long time friend of mine, after realizing that….
“Thank you for the lambasting.”
“For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” 2 Corinthians 2:17
“A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:” Proverbs 1:5
“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” Proverbs 9:9-10
“The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise. 32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. 33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.” Proverbs 15:31-33
“Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities.” Psalms 141:5
PRAYER: Father I want the knowledge of the holy. I want to know and serve You on Your terms and no other. Please forgive my sins which include being hardened in heart, being full of pride and rebellion, being therefore unteachable. Break me dear LORD. Let the righteous, let Your people rebuke me as is needed. I want to know, love, worship, and be with You forever. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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Walking in Godly Integrity Means Paying Restitution Where Needed [podcast]
“And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.” Acts 24:16
Truth: The LORD is watching everything you think and do and will bring you into judgment for it all – all (Proverbs 15:3; 20:11; 23:7; Mark 12:41-44; Romans 14:10, etc.). What’s your judgment going to look like?
“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:1-2
Jesus taught that only the “honest” will be with Him (Luke 8:15). The dishonest, “ALL … liars” will perish irrevocably in the lake of fire (Revelation 21:8). Those who’ve brought harm to others and have the opportunity to restore what they took (financially, emotionally, etc.) prove who they are by what they do or do not do. Those who take personal responsibility for the harm they brought on another, will be blessed. Those who don’t will be shut out, “cut off” from God (Romans 11:20-22).
“Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: 4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,” 2 Corinthians 6:3-4
“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13
Godly Integrity owns up to its personal responsibility to make amends where we have caused hurt. Restitution. A man of godly integrity never runs from his personal responsibility to repair and restore where he has brought harm – with his words, attitudes, or actions. This is exactly what happens when a man truly repents and gives his life to Christ. Zacchaeus is a great example to us of this. Like Zacchaeus, when we truly repent, there will always be good fruit, amends for our wrongdoing. Watch this closely. Watch what this man does after getting right with God:
Luke 19
1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.
2 And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.
5 (the call and command) And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.
6 (obedience) And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.
7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. (that’s exactly why Jesus came!)
8 And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. (true repentance always brings for the fruit of restitution Matthew 3:7-10)
9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.
10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
As we see in this case with Zacchaeus when he repented, turning to Jesus the Savior, true repentance always brings for the fruit of restitution. See Matthew 3:7-10.
Zacchaeus is a great example. When, if that true repentance happens in his heart, if the sinner, the transgressor allows it, there will be a practical restitution to those he’s harmed by his sin. Soon as he repented he wanted to pay restitution to those he’d harmed.
“Verse 8 is one of the strongest in the Bible on restitution. Salvation does not relieve a person from righting the wrongs of the past. Debts contracted during one’s unconverted days are not canceled by the new birth. And if money was stolen before salvation, then a true sense of the grace of God requires that this money be repaid after a person has become a child of God.” William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commentary
There’s no such thing as a person who is right with God and not making restitution for those he’s hurt.
INTEGRITY: If you owe someone $1,000 and can’t pay it all at once, show integrity and send them $ every month or week till you’ve paid them off. If you don’t, you show yourself to be a man who is without integrity (Proverbs 20:7). Soon as you begin paying back, you demonstrate the earnest of your integrity.
Jesus teaches us that we are wasting our time attempting to relate to or pray to the Father in His name if we have issues that need to be clear up with another.
God will not answer the prayer of any person who does not honor and obey His Word and if a person has an outstanding offense He wants them to clear up these matters (Proverbs 28:9, 13).
“Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matthew 5:23-24
God is not going to bless our lives unless we are willing to sincerely admit our sins, repent and confess them, and make amends (restitution) with anyone we’ve harmed. In the divine economy, there’s no such thing as being right with God when you’ve done another person wrong, haven’t repented, and haven’t made amends for what you’ve done. Such a person will be outside of the will and blessings of God until he makes things right with God and man.
The LORD requires that His people “examine” and “judge” themselves.
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 2 Corinthians 13:5
Examine and honest judge yourself and amend your ways or God will judge you.
“For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.” 1 Corinthians 11:31-32
More Bible Verses on Restitution
Read Exodus 22:1-31
“If a thief be found breaking up (stealing in a burglary, home invasion), and be smitten that he die, there shall no blood be shed for him. 3 If the sun be risen upon him, there shall be blood shed for him; for he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.” Exodus 22:2-3
“Speak unto the children of Israel, When a man or woman shall commit any sin that men commit, to do a trespass against the LORD, and that person be guilty; 7 Then they shall confess their sin which they have done: and he shall recompense his trespass with the principal thereof, and add unto it the fifth part thereof, and give it unto him against whom he hath trespassed.” Numbers 5:6-7
“And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man’s brother will I require the life of man. 6 Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” Genesis 9:5-6
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