Matthew 5:13-16

We are to be found similar to our Lord and Savior/ sharing His attributes as closely as is humanly possible. We will never be perfect but others, all genders, nationalities and faiths, should see Him in us.

similitude | siˈmiləˌt(y)o͞od |

noun

the quality or state of being similar to something.

Salt fulfilled a variety of functions throughout biblical history. Israel’s proximity to the Dead Sea and numerous salt pits throughout the land made salt a readily accessible commodity.

Jesus shifts from pronouncements of blessing to instructions about the law. He compares His followers to salt and light, elements commonly used as metaphors in antiquity. His point is that disciples who fail to live a lifestyle that reflects the values of the kingdom of heaven are akin to something tasteless or devoid of light—undesirable and of no value. Faithlife Bible.

Pure salt maintains its flavor. In Israel, some salt was mixed with other ingredients. When it was exposed to the elements, the salt would be “leached out.” Such leached-out salt was used for coating pathways.

The believer does not have inherent light; rather we have reflective light. As we behold the glory of the Lord, we reflect it. Therefore, we need to make sure that nothing comes between us and the Lord’s light. NKJ Bible.

Matthew 5:13–16 (NKJV)

¹³ “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.

¹⁴ “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

1 Peter 2:12 (NKJV)

¹² having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Mark 9:50 (NKJV)

⁵⁰ Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.”