City On A Hill: Being Salt and Light |Pt.1| Nick Birmingham

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Location: Church On The Rock, Nashville, Arkansas

Pastor: Nick Birmingham

Key Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16

Main Points:

1. Introduction: Influence Beyond Social Media

   • Everyone has influence, not just social media influencers.
   • People are watching how Christians live.
   • The world needs Christians to be different, to be a light in darkness.
   • We often succumb to peer pressure and cultural norms.
   • Jesus calls us to be countercultural, to be salt and light.

2. Being the Salt of the Earth (Matthew 5:13)

   • "You are the salt of the earth."
   • Salt signifies:
     • Preservation: Preventing decay and corruption.
     • Enhancing Flavor: Adding goodness to a bland world.
     • Irritation: Truth can sting, but it's necessary.
     • Creating Thirst: Making people desire Jesus.
   • The overall goal of salt is to be useful.
   • We are to be "salty saints."

3. Being the Light of the World (Matthew 5:14-15)

   • "You are the light of the world."
   • Christians are called to be visible and live their faith openly.
   • Examples:
     • Praying before meals.
     • Praying at public events (e.g., ball games).
     • Living your faith out loud will cost you something.
   • We are to be spiritual "light bulbs" shining for God's kingdom.

4. Our Light Points to God (Matthew 5:16)

   • "Let your light shine...that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father."
   • The purpose is to glorify God, not ourselves.
   • Our actions should reflect God's character.
   • We are signposts pointing to Jesus.
   • We want to have an eternal impact.
   • We are to encourage one another to continue to be salt and light.
   • Our job as witnesses is to point people to Jesus.

5. Practical Application:

   • Be Prepared: Cultivate your spiritual life through prayer, scripture study, and fellowship.
   • Be Visible: Don't hide your faith; let it shine in all areas of life.
   • Be Active: Engage in good works, acts of kindness, and service.

6. Call to Action:

   • Invitation to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.
   • Invitation to rededicate one's life to being salt and light.
   • Prayer team available for those who need prayer.