The Parables of Jesus – Part 1: Salt and Light
Series Memory Verse: “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (p.907)
Matthew 5:13-16
- I Must Be Different To Make A Difference.
Followers of Jesus (Christians) should have:
Something marked, distinct, and peculiar about our character.
Beware of despising the Old Testament:
(Jesus) “…I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.” Matthew 5:17 (p.736)
Beware of despising the Ten Commandments:
“…if we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law.” Romans 3:31 (p.859)
Beware of thinking that grace lowered the standard of personal holiness:
“…work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14 (p.928)
Embrace Jesus’ calling by:
- Guarding my character.
“You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.” Matthew 5:13 (p.736)
Greek. μωρός: The concept of folly, to become foolish.
- Glorifying God.
“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 (p.736)
“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16 (p.736)
My Next Step This Week: _____ I will read through the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) each morning and prayerfully ask God to align my character with His.