Matthew 5:14-16

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Matthew 5:14-16
Immediately after saying, “You are salt,” Jesus uses a second figure and says, “You are light.” Salt preserves and flavors, changing the nature of the recipient. Light points the way so that a person does not stumble or become lost. Under the category of light, Jesus uses two figures: a city set on a hill and a lamp. A city indicates the force of many lights giving off a beacon that can be seen from a great distance. Together, Christians offer a greater influence than if they only did their work as individuals. A city set on a hill cannot be hid and yet many local churches are unknown by the residents of their own community. A church must not forget that it does not exist to simply comfort the saved, but to be a light to those who are lost.The picture of a lamp is intended to show something that no one would do. Who would light a lamp and then cover it up? The Lord has created us as lamps reflecting His light. We will have done the very opposite of our purpose if we hide our light. But how many Christians work closely with coworkers and friends without them ever knowing that there is a light among them? A Christian who thinks he is a light without ever opening his mouth is badly mistaken. Peter states, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Pet. 2:9).

Most importantly, notice the words of verse 16: “Let your light so shine…” Here is the goal of being salt and light. We are to live in such a manner that our influence will cause others to “glorify your Father in heaven.” Christian, are you thinking about how your actions and words are seen by those around you? How easily and quickly we can forget our purpose when we are overwhelmed by the stress of our daily grind! Thus Paul states, “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Col. 4:5-6).
Berry Kercheville