Salt

• Let’s talk about parables. No, we are not doing complex math. A parable is a teaching tool commonly used by Jesus throughout the Gospels.

• It’s basically an illustration that teaches an applicable life lesson. Jesus was the greatest storyteller to ever live. He seldom just said things matter-of-factly. Rather, He would tell relatable stories that helped people understand complex principles. Simply put, a parable is a simple story that explains a spiritual truth.

TENSION:

• Most people wouldn’t say that “salt” is their favorite flavor. However, a little pinch often plays a big role in completing the taste of your favorite foods.

• What is salt exactly? Salt is an influencer of flavor. It brings out the best in every food. You don’t realize it, but it’s what makes most food taste good. From french fries to steaks to pizza to cookies, salt brings out the best of their flavors.

• Today we are going to look at one of Jesus’s parables where He uses the metaphor of salt. He doesn’t give a recipe. Rather, he suggests that his followers are called to be… salty.

Illustration: Show examples of foods that are improved by salt. (French fries, eggs, veggies, etc.)  

• When Jesus was just starting His ministry, He kicked it off with an epic sermon on the edge of a mountain. We call it the Sermon on the Mount. Clever, right?

• During this long sermon, Jesus discusses the keys to the Kingdom of God.

• During the opening of this message, he shares a short and powerful parable. He says, “you are the salt of the earth."

• Salt was central to the ancient way of life.

• It was so important that it was used as currency in commercial operations across the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Adriatic seas.

• Salt was used as medicine, food, fertilizer, and even money. Then, Jesus goes on to call the listening crowd the “salt of the earth.”

• An ancient Roman official wrote, “There is nothing more useful than salt and sunshine.”

• This curious metaphor would suggest that Jesus thinks the presence of his church is necessary for the hope and health of the world.

— TRANSITION —

• I know, don’t you wish Jesus would have called you something cooler than salt? Why not a Flaming Hot Cheeto or a Surf and Turf dinner? Rather, he parallels us with one of the most basic items in our pantries.

• This was intentional though. When we examine the benefits and uses of salt, we will see what this means for the lives God has called us to live.

• Who does Jesus say is the salt of the earth? You!

One: This means that you should bring out the best in people.

• Do you bring out the best in the lives of those around you? Everywhere you go, you should see a change in the atmosphere.

• Your friends should be better because you’re in their lives.

• Your school should be better because you’re in it.

• Your team should be better because you’re a part of it.

Two: This means that you should play a background role.

• Salt is under-the-radar. You don’t really notice it in most food. No one eating a steak says, “Wow, this salt is amazing!” People compliment the steak. Salt is not meant to overshadow other flavors.

• This should be true in your life, too. Your life shouldn’t be self-centered or overwhelmingly about yourself.

• Rather, you should give glory to God to show others how awesome He is.

• Your choices, your actions, and your relationships should all reveal the glory of God.

Three: This means that you should make people want to know God more.

• Imagine you just ate a big plate of salty bacon. What would you immediately want (besides a nap)? You would want something to drink, right? Salt naturally triggers thirst.

• What does this mean for you?

• Wherever a Christian goes, it should cause people to want to know more Jesus. Your life should spark interest in Jesus.

ILLUSTRATION: Tell a story of someone who makes people want to learn more about Jesus.

• Your relationship with Christ should be contagious.

• Let’s say I interviewed the 5 closest people in your life. Would they want to know more about Jesus because of the way you live?

• Do they want to know why you’re so kind?

• Do they want to know why you’re so generous?

• Do they know why you’re so hopeful in times of stress?

• Your life should be an example of faithful living that makes people want to know more about Jesus.

• Look at your life in context of this parable.

• Are you bringing out the best in others or dragging them down with negativity, gossip, and temptation?

• Who are you glorifying and praising in life, God or yourself?

• Is your lifestyle contagious or toxic?

Landing:

• Jesus calls you to be the salt of the earth, enhancing the lives of those around you, giving all the glory to God, and making people want to know more about Jesus.

TALK IT OUT 

Go through these questions with your circle. Be honest. Be open. Talk through the tough stuff.

Q1: What is your favorite salty food?

Q2: Let's clear this up from the start! What is the difference between someone calling you "salty" today and Jesus calling you the "salt of the earth" during His Sermon on the Mount?

Q3: What do students do to intentionally or unintentionally bring their friends down? How can you bring out the best in your friends instead?

Q4: How can someone glorify God with their life?

Q5: What's one, specific way you can be the salt of the earth this week?

READING PLAN FOR SALT

READ THESE PASSAGES IN ORDER EVERY DAY

Acts 24:1-13 

1 Peter 3:15 

Acts 27:1-12 

Acts 27:13-26 

Acts 27:27-44 

Do the following with each passage: 

ASK– God to connect with you here. In prayer, start by slowing down and inviting God to be present. Begin with focus and openness to see what God has for you today.

READ– the selected section of Scripture slowly. Take note of the words and phrases that intrigue you, reading them a second time if necessary. REFLECT– on what grabs you. How does this passage personally relate to your own life and experiences?

RESPOND– to the Scripture. Speak directly to God about what’s on your mind and heart. Look for ways to live out what you’ve uncovered.