The Call to Be Salt and Light in the World

Understanding the Sermon on the Mount

The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most cherished and significant teachings of Jesus, found in Matthew chapters 5–7. In it, Jesus shares a collection of sayings and teachings that reveal the heart of the Kingdom of Heaven and the kind of life He desires for His followers.

He speaks about the Beatitudes, the Lord’s Prayer, the Golden Rule, and much more. A central theme throughout is His invitation for believers to be “salt and light” in the world—people whose everyday lives reflect the beauty and glory of Christ to those around them.

The Meaning of Being 'Salt of the Earth'

In Matthew 5:13, Jesus tells His disciples, “You are the salt of the earth.” In the ancient world, salt was treasured for its ability to preserve food and enhance its flavor. By calling His followers the “salt of the earth,” Jesus highlights their calling to help preserve what is good and to bring the rich “flavor” of God’s Kingdom into the world.

At the same time, He warns that if salt loses its saltiness, it no longer serves its purpose.

In the same way, this picture encourages believers to remain distinct and faithful, allowing their genuine, everyday obedience to Christ to positively influence the people and places around them.

Reflecting Christ's Light in a Dark World

Jesus continues in Matthew 5:14–16, saying, “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.”

Light is a beautiful picture of guidance, hope, and revelation.

As followers of Christ, we’re invited to reflect His light in a world that can often feel overshadowed by darkness. This looks like living in a way that lines up with the teachings of Jesus, showing love, compassion, and truth in all our interactions.

When we do, we help others see the way to God and His Kingdom.

Practical Ways to Live Out Your Faith

Living as salt and light is something we grow into through simple, everyday choices that can bless the people around us. Here are some practical ways to live out these teachings in daily life:

• Engage with Scripture: Regularly spending time reading and reflecting on Scripture helps us stay rooted in our faith and more clearly discern God’s will for our lives.
• Participate in Worship: Joining corporate worship services and small groups is a way to build community, receive encouragement, and walk alongside others in faith.
• Serve Others: Volunteering in local ministries, whether at a food bank or through a community outreach program, is a meaningful way to share Christ’s love in practical, everyday ways.
• Share Your Faith: Being open about your faith and sharing your story of how God is at work in your life can encourage others to seek a deeper relationship with Him.
• Live with Integrity: Living with integrity, choosing what is right, even when it’s hard, and treating others with kindness and respect is a beautiful way to reflect the character of Christ.

How New Covenant Church Supports Your Spiritual Journey

At New Covenant Church, we are committed to supporting our members in their spiritual growth and mission to be salt and light in the world. We offer a variety of resources and programs to help you deepen your relationship with Him and engage with the people and places around you:

• Online Worship & Services: Access live and recorded church services, sermon videos, and online worship gatherings anytime through our website.
• Sermons, Podcasts & Teachings: Explore pastoral sermons, sermon series, articles, and podcasts that walk through Scripture and everyday Christian living.
• Scripture Listening Plans (Dwell App): Follow along with curated audio Scripture reading plans created by our staff, available for free through the Dwell app.
• Small Groups & Discussion Calls: Join us for staff-hosted Zoom calls and small-group meetings where you can share insights, ask questions, and reflect on Scripture together in community.
• Community Ministries & Events: Join in local ministries, mission support, baptisms, youth events, and hospitality-focused programs that serve our neighbors and help nurture a vibrant, Christ-centered community life.

Embrace Your Role as Salt and Light

To go a little deeper into what it means to live as salt and light in the world, we invite you to watch the related sermon video on our website. This Epiphany-season message reflects on how Jesus calls His disciples to shine His glory to the nations. As you listen and respond to this call, the Lord can use you to bless your community and beyond in meaningful ways.

Let's step out into the world, shining the light of Christ and preserving the goodness He has entrusted to us.

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