Expository Thoughts On Matthew - Matthew 5:13-20
J.C. Ryle expounds that true Christians must embody the distinct and preserving qualities of salt and the illuminating power of light, demonstrating a marked difference in character and conduct from the world.
In this expository sermon on Matthew 5:13-20, J.C. Ryle explores the profound symbolism of Christians as salt and light in the world. He emphasizes the necessity for believers to maintain a distinct and godly character that preserves and illuminates society. Ryle challenges listeners to examine their faith’s authenticity by the fruit it produces and the difference it makes in their daily lives.
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THESE verses teach us, in the first place, the character which true Christians must support and maintain in the world.
The Lord Jesus tells us that true Christians are to be in the world like \"salt.\" \"Ye are the salt of the earth.\" Now salt has a peculiar taste of its own, utterly unlike anything else. When mingled with other substances it preserves them from corruption; it imparts a portion of its taste to everything it is mixed with. It is useful so long as it preserves its savour, but no longer. Are we true Christians? Then let us see here our office and our duties!
The Lord Jesus tells us that true Christians are to be in the world like light. \"Ye are the light of the world.\" Now it is the property of light to be utterly distinct from darkness. The least spark in a dark room can be seen at once. Of all things created, light is the most useful: it fertilizes; it guides; it cheers. It was the first thing called into being. ( Genesis 1:3.) Without it the world would be a gloomy blank. Are we true Christians? Then behold again our position and its responsibility!
Surely, if words mean anything, we are meant to learn from these two figures that there must be something marked, distinct, and peculiar about our character, if we are true Christians. It will never do to idle through life, thinking and living like others, if we mean to be owned by Christ as His people. Have we grace? Then it must be seen.--Have we the Spirit? Then there must be fruit.--Have we any saving religion? Then there must be a difference of habits, tastes, and turn of mind, between us and those who think only of the world.--It is perfectly clear that true Christianity is something more then being baptized and going to church. \"Salt\" and \"light\" evidently imply peculiarity both of heart and life, of faith and practice. We must dare to be singular and unlike the world, if we mean to be saved.
These verses teach us, in the second place, the relation between Christ\\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Christian as Salt
- Salt’s unique taste and preserving qualities
- Christians must preserve and influence the world
- Losing saltiness means losing usefulness
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II. The Christian as Light
- Light’s distinctness from darkness
- Light’s role in guidance, cheer, and fertility
- Christians must shine visibly in a dark world
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III. The Necessity of Distinctiveness
- True Christianity demands a marked difference in character
- Faith must produce fruit and change habits
- Being baptized or attending church is not enough
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IV. The Responsibility of Christians
- Christians must dare to be singular and unlike the world
- The Spirit’s presence must be evident in life
- Our conduct testifies to our salvation
Key Quotes
“Ye are the salt of the earth. Now salt has a peculiar taste of its own, utterly unlike anything else.” — J.C. Ryle
“Ye are the light of the world. Now it is the property of light to be utterly distinct from darkness.” — J.C. Ryle
“True Christianity is something more than being baptized and going to church. 'Salt' and 'light' evidently imply peculiarity both of heart and life.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Examine your life to ensure your faith produces visible fruit and distinctiveness.
- Commit to preserving godly values in your community like salt preserves food.
- Let your conduct and speech shine as a light that guides and encourages others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be the 'salt of the earth'?
Being the 'salt of the earth' means Christians must preserve moral goodness and positively influence the world around them.
Why are Christians called the 'light of the world'?
Christians are called the 'light of the world' because they are to shine distinctly in darkness, guiding and uplifting others.
Can a Christian lose their 'saltiness'?
Yes, if a Christian loses their distinctiveness and fails to live out their faith, they lose their effectiveness and witness.
Is attending church enough to be a true Christian?
No, true Christianity requires a transformed heart and life that visibly differs from the world.
What practical difference should faith make in a believer’s life?
Faith should produce fruit, changing habits, tastes, and the believer’s mindset to reflect Christ’s character.