Knowing The Word in Matthew 5:13-16

Salt and Light

13 “You are the salt [gives flavor and prevents corruption] 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. [When disciples are true to their calling, they make the world a purer and more palatable place. When disciples are not true, they are useless for the kingdom of heaven.]

14 “You are the light of the world. [Like salt, light is distinctive and different. It stands out.] A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 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. 16 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. [Disciples are to be distinctive from others, but our aim is not to parade our virtue, but to point others to Jesus who is the true light of the world. We are to be the moon to the sun.]