Lesson 11: Being Salt and Light in a Dark World

Matthew 5:13–16; Philippians 2:15–16
Living with influence and purity when society grows darker.

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Scripture Reading (KJV)

Matthew 5:13–16

13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Philippians 2:15–16

15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

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I. Introduction

In the last days, moral darkness will increase, and truth will be suppressed. Yet Jesus calls His followers to be salt that preserves and light that exposes, guiding others toward God’s truth. This is not passive survival—it’s active influence in a corrupt world.

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II. Doctrinal Insights

1. Salt: The Preserving Influence of the Righteous

• Preservation of truth – Salt prevents decay; Christians uphold God’s truth to resist moral corruption (Mark 9:50).

• Flavor of grace – Salt enhances taste; believers should bring God’s grace into every interaction (Colossians 4:6).

• Warning against losing savour – Compromise robs us of influence; holiness keeps our witness potent.

2. Light: The Revealing Power of God’s Truth

• Light exposes darkness – God’s Word reveals sin and points the way to righteousness (Psalm 119:105).

• Visibility is essential – A hidden light is useless; our faith must be lived openly (Ephesians 5:8–11).

• Purpose of shining – Our good works should lead others to glorify God, not us (1 Peter 2:12).

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III. Practical Applications

1. Refuse compromise – Stay committed to biblical truth even when it’s unpopular.

2. Live openly for Christ – Let your faith be seen in your actions, speech, and priorities.

3. Engage in works of mercy – Be known for compassion, generosity, and integrity.

4. Guard your influence – Stay close to God through prayer, Word, and fellowship to keep your light bright.

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IV. End-Time Relevance

• In an age when deception and lawlessness abound, the Church’s presence is God’s restraining influence (2 Thessalonians 2:6–7).

• A believer who loses their influence is like unsalted salt—discarded and powerless in the spiritual battle.

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V. Discussion Questions

1. How can you maintain your “saltiness” when surrounded by worldly influences?

2. What practical steps can you take to ensure your light is visible in daily life?

3. In what ways can your influence lead someone to Christ this week?

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VI. Group Activity

"Light in the Darkness" Challenge –

• Each member identifies one dark place (workplace, neighborhood, school, social circle) where they can intentionally shine their light this week.

• Pray over each person’s mission field and commission them to act.

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VII. Memory Verse

Matthew 5:16

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.