Matthew 5:13-16 NIV 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Small Group Leader: Choose how many questions that will honor your time commitment. Encourage everyone to participate in either a question, reading or prayer. If using this as a family, choose 2 - 3 questions to go deeper in faith. Open in Prayer Bible Study Questions: What does it mean to be the “salt of the earth”? Read: Matthew 5:13 How can Christians act as a preserving influence in today’s world? What are some ways you might lose your “saltiness” as a disciple? (salt does not become less “salty” on its own. It can be diluted by water or other minerals.) What are some of the possible consequences of losing salt’s flavor, as Jesus describes in verse 13? Read: Matthew 5:14 Why is it important for a Christian to maintain their distinctiveness in the world? Jesus says, “You are the light of the world.” What does it mean to be the "light" in your community, workplace, or school? What does Jesus mean by saying a “town built on a hill cannot be hidden”? Read: Matthew 5:15 How does this imagery apply to the visibility of a Christian's life and testimony? Verse 15 says, “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.” What are some “bowls” that might try to hide your light today? Read: Matthew 5:16 How can you avoid being hindered in shining your light for Christ? What do good works look like according to Matthew 5:16? How do these works point others to God and bring glory to the Father? In what ways can you let your “light shine” so that others can see your good deeds? How can you ensure that your actions are visible to others, not to draw attention to yourself, but to glorify God? Verse 16 emphasizes that the purpose of shining your light is to glorify your Father in heaven. What is the difference between doing good deeds to gain praise for yourself and doing them to glorify God? How can you keep your motivations pure when serving others? What challenges do you face when trying to be salt and light in a secular world? How can you overcome these challenges and stay faithful to your mission? How does this passage challenge your current understanding of your role as a Christian in the world? Are there areas where you can stand up for what is right, act as a peacemaker, or support justice and goodness? Shine the Light: Consider practical ways to let your light shine. This could include engaging in acts of kindness, sharing your testimony, or using your skills and talents for God’s glory. Stay Visible: Don’t hide your faith, but allow your actions to point others to Christ. Ask yourself: When others see me, do they see Christ in me?