1. You are the light of the world.

“In other words, it is this extraordinary teaching of the mystical union between the believer and his Lord. His nature enters into us so that we become in a sense, what He Himself is…As those who believe the gospel have received the light and knowledge and instruction. But, in addition, it has become part of us. It has become our life, so that we thus become reflectors of it.” (Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, Lloyd-Jones, 142)

2. Don't hide your light.

“To get rid of darkness you don’t fight it and kick it—you light a candle (How to be a transformed person, Jones, 183)

“I believe such Christians exert an incalculable influence on society! Their mere presence reduces crime, restrains ethical corruption, promotes honesty, quickens the conscience, and elevates the general moral atmosphere. The presence of such people in the military, in business, in education, in a fraternity or sorority will amazingly elevate the level of living. And their absence will allow unbelievable depths of depravity. Believers, salty believers, are the world’s preservative.”
(The Sermon on the Mount, Hughes, 81)

3. Shine your light-to glorify God.

“Christian people, you and I are living in the midst of men and women who are in a state of gross darkness. They will never have any light anywhere in this world except from you and from me and the gospel we believe and teach.” (Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, Lloyd-Jones, 147)

“Thank God for those men and women who spend their lives in the slums of the earth, not as social reformers to light their brothers and sisters to cleaner sties, but as the light of God, revealing a way back to Him.” (Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, Chambers, 17).

Sermon Discussion Questions

1. Why does Jesus say to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world"? What is the difference between Earth and the world, and what is the significance of these words?

2. What are some ways that we can see it being a dark world? How can your light shine in the place of your influence?

3. What prohibits people from shining their light?

4. How should you better live out this command of Jesus?

5. What are other verses that talk about light that relate to these verses?

6. What light has been shown to you through this message? Are you willing to receive it?