Salt & Light {Part 2}

In the book of Matthew chapter five our Saviour Yahoshua Hamashiach, (Jesus Christ) provides us with two valuable emblems salt and light. 

The metaphor ““You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden,” from the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 5:14) is a powerful and multifaceted image used by Yahoshua in the Sermon on the Mount. It conveys a deep spiritual meaning about the role and responsibilities of Yahoshua’s followers in the world.

Light as a Symbol of Guidance and Truth

In the Bible, light often symbolizes purity, truth, and the presence of Yahweh. By calling His followers the “light of the world,” our Saviour Yahoshua Hamashiach emphasizes their role as bearers of truth and moral clarity in a world that can be darkened by sin, ignorance, and moral confusion. Just as light illuminates and guides, as followers of the way we are called to be visible examples of righteousness, kindness and love, illuminating the way for others to follow.

Visibility and Influence

The metaphor of a “city built on a hill” that “cannot be hidden” highlights the inherent visibility of those who live out their faith. Just as a city on a hill is seen by all around, as followers of the Way, we are to live in such a way that our lives naturally draw attention and point others toward the Almighty. Our actions and character should be noticeable and distinct, not hidden or concealed.

Purpose of Light

The idea that “No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand” reinforces the purpose of light to shine and provide illumination. The image of placing a lamp on a stand so that it gives light to all in the house suggests that believers are to actively engage with the world around them, sharing the light of Yahoshua with others. Our faith is not meant to be private or hidden but a reflection of our Saviour’s’ love , kindness, righteousness, and mercy along with our Heavenly Father’s character.

Good Works and Glorifying Yahweh

Yahoshua concludes with the exhortation to “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” This highlights the purpose of living a life of faith and goodwill, not to bring attention to oneself but to point others toward Yahweh. Good works, performed in the light of faith, serve as a testimony to the transformative power of our Heavenly Father’s grace, leading others to recognize and honour Him.

Application to Believers

The passage Matthew 5:14 reinforces the theme of responsibility and influence that followers of the Way carry. Just as salt preserves and flavours, light guides, reflects and reveals. We are called to live in such a way that our lives reflect the truth, love, and righteousness of the Almighty. Our attitude, actions and words should serve as a witness to others, leading them to recognize Yahweh's goodness and respond wanting the same for their lives.

This passage, like the previous one about salt, emphasizes the active and visible nature of the believer’s life. It challenges us to consider how our lives can be a beacon of hope and truth in a world that desperately needs both.

Yohanan-Uriel