Keeping Ourselves unspotted from the world (Lesson 51)
Introduction:
1. We learn from James 1:27 that two important activities are included in "pure and undefiled religion before God." a. One activity is "visiting the fatherless and widows in their affliction." b. The other activity is "keeping ourselves unspotted from the world." 2. How thankful we need to be that God has provided instructions in His Word to help us remain free from the world's spots. 3. In this lesson we are concentrating on the Lord's instructions in Matthew 5:13-16 that relate to "salt and light."
Discussion:
I. (vs.13) THE LORD'S FOLLOWERS ARE TO BE THE SALT OF THE EARTH
A. Salt influences things that it contacts. 1. It is used as a preservative to prevent spoilage. 2. It is used as a seasoning to enhance the flavor of foods. 3. As a preservative and seasoning, salt is certainly valuable. B. (vs.13a) Jesus compared His followers to salt to show how we are to have a positive influence upon the world. C. (vs.13b) Jesus emphasized the need for having the right kind of influence. 1. Salt that has lost its saltiness is good for nothing. 2. (See Luke 14:34-35) If we hear what Jesus said, we realize that a Christian without proper influence [one who is spotted by the world] is of no benefit to His kingdom.
II. (vs.14-16) THE LORD'S FOLLOWERS ARE TO BE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
A. Light is also very useful and influential. 1. It dispels darkness. 2. It causes plants to grow. 3. Sunlight can change a person's disposition for the better. B. Jesus used this comparison to teach His followers to have a positive influence upon the world. C. (vs.15-16) We must not hide our light -- we must let it shine before men. 1. This is accomplished by doing good works. 2. Our good works will lead others to glorify God. D. (Luke 11:33-36) The Lord warns us to make sure that the light in us is not darkness -- our influence must not radiate the world's spots. E. Also see Romans 13:11-14; Ephesians 5:8-10; Philippians 2:12-16; 1 John 1:5-7.
