Matthew 5:13: (NASB 1995) You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.
Salt is a preservative and adds flavor. If the salt has become tasteless, it loses the ability to be a preservative. Just like salt, we can lose saltiness – the aspect of righteousness, integrity and godliness in the world around us. To be the "salt of the earth" is to be a person of exceptional character – godly character – a person who witnesses as a living sermon. That kind of character has a preserving effect, keeping things intact. It is stable and selfless.
Matthew 5:14-16: (NASB 1995) You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
The Christian is supposed to be "light," just as we are supposed to be "salt." To be the "light of the world" is to be a source of light and truth. Being a light means not only revealing what is in dark places, but also being a beacon of hope and direction. The Christian is to rise above to be the example of discipleship in Christ.
Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1213: "Is God Happy With My Attitude? (Part I)"
Uncovering the life-directing principles in the Beatitudes
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1214: "Is God Happy With My Attitude? (Part II)"
Learning and applying the grand conclusion of Jesus' Beatitudes
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
