Weekly Discussion Guide

Pastor Matt talked about how the metaphors of Salt and light communicate the same things: Jesus’ followers are now the proclaimers of the new covenant, and he has given us the tools necessary to do that well.

MY STORY
Think of someone whose life shines out as a follower of Christ, without being pretentious. It could be someone you know, like a friend or relative, or it could be an author or a public figure. What is it about this person—which of their qualities or behaviors are so distinctive?

WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? (Matthew 5:13a)

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus was speaking to a large audience that included people from all walks of life. Why do you think he used salt and light to illustrate his point, especially in this culture?

At the time, the people Jesus was speaking to would be used to assuming that the Pharisees and other religious leaders were the only ones worthy to be in the spotlight. How do you think it made them feel to be told, “You are the light of the world”?

In your own words, describe what the purpose is of salt. What about light?

Think of a world with no salt or light. What comparisons do you see between that world and one without God’s people?

What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and the questions above, what “takeaways” do you think God has revealed to you?

WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
List all the ways you can think of that Crossroads is salt and light in the world. How are you contributing to that mission? In what ways are you involved, or would like to be involved?

Be creative with the metaphors of salt and light, and thing of some creative ways you can bring added “flavor” to those in your circle of influence, or to be a type of beacon that naturally draws people to Jesus.

What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit’s leading, call us to?

WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

What is the difference between good works that give glory to God, and good works that bring glory to you? What are some of the ways that you can make sure the glory goes to God?

Going back to the MY STORY section, do you see any ways that your life can mirror the life of the person you selected? Be as specific as possible.
If we’re going to be completely honest with ourselves, sometimes it seems easier to delegate the “religious stuff” to leaders in the church. Jesus calls us to be witnesses to him through our own individual lives, though. What is significant about that to you?

What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?