Whereas the Beatitudes describe the essential characteristics of disciples, in today’s text, Jesus describes the disciples’ influence and interaction with the world. Jesus intends his followers to remain in the world (see John 17:15).

Jesus’ disciples are the hope of the world.

He gives two metaphors: salt and light, both of which indicate that Christians are different from the rest of the world because of what he has made them.

Salt was primarily used as a preservative in Jesus’ day, when there was no modern refrigeration. This implies that the world is rotting. Rather than progressing like modernity promised, the world consistently decays into moral chaos. Jesus’ disciples slow this process just by simply being followers of his way.

Secondly, and following a sequential order, these “salty Christians” are also the light of the world. Verse 16 indicates their light will be good works done for the Father’s glory. Humanity’s problem is summed up well in John 3:19: “…people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.”

In the “upside down kingdom,” Jesus has chosen to use what is perceived as weak and foolish in the world to shame the strong and wise (1 Cor. 1:27). Those of sincere faith in Jesus live a holistic life of mission doing these things:

1. Proclaiming the Good News.
2. Helping disciple new Christians.
3. Meeting basic needs in loving service.
4. Challenging systemic injustices in society.
5. Caring for the earth.

Taking It Home: Read back over the Beatitudes and ask yourself how “salty” you are. Renew your commitment to God. Think about the actions to which you devote your time, asking yourself how effective they are at pointing people to God. Salt and light should look different from the world around you.