Summer on the Mount #3 – Salt and Light Matthew 5:13-16 Key Verse “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.” – Matthew 5:13-14 Introduction Review of the Beatitudes The Kingdom of Heaven is available to everyone. Jesus modeled the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes reflect the Fruit of the Spirit. Kingdom living produces Kingdom influence. Main Thought: Jesus does not say you can be salt and light. Jesus says YOU ARE salt and light. Our Identity in Christ “You Are…” Followers of Jesus are salt and light. This is not a future possibility. This is our present identity. What we do flows from who we are. Notes You Are the Salt of the Earth Salt Salt must the shaker to be effective. Christians must their world. We are called to our circle of influence. Application: How am I reaching people outside the church? Salt Salt slows decay. Christians help preserve godly values. We influence culture through godly living. Application: Where can I be a positive influence in my community? Salt Adds The Kingdom brings joy, peace, and hope. Christians should make life better for others. We bring encouragement and love. Romans 14:17 “The kingdom of God is… righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Salt Creates Salt makes people thirsty. Our lives should make others desire Christ. People should see Jesus in us. Question: Do others see something in me that points them to Jesus? You Are the Light of the World Identity Before Activity Jesus says, “You are the light.” When we know who we are, we know what to do. The Source of the Light John 8:12 “I am the light of the world.” Jesus is the source. We reflect His light. Christ in us produces Kingdom light. The Visibility of the Light Light is meant to be seen. Our good works should be visible. Like a lighthouse, we shine and guide others. Philippians 2:15 “Shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.” The Purpose of the Light Our lives point people to God. The goal is His glory, not ours. Everything is about advancing His Kingdom. Key Takeaways ✓ I am salt and light because of my identity in Christ. ✓ God wants me to influence my world. ✓ My life should make others thirsty for Jesus. ✓ My light should point people to the Father. Personal Response This Week I Will: □ Penetrate my world by sharing Christ with someone. □ Preserve godly values through my actions. □ Add joy and encouragement to someone’s life. □ Let my light shine through visible acts of kindness.