Sermon Central
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Salt, Light And Fire
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Apr 15, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: As salt, light, and fire, God has empowered us to make a difference in the world. These symbols show that Christianity is not passive; it is active, vibrant, and transformational. You are meant to preserve, to shine, and to burn for God.
SALT, LIGHT AND FIRE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 5:13-16
"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.
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
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.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Supporting Texts: Mark 9:49-50, Luke 12:49, Leviticus 6:12-13, John 8:12, 1 Peter 2:9
INTRODUCTION:
Jesus used powerful metaphors—salt, light, and fire—to describe the nature and influence of believers in the world. These elements symbolise preservation, illumination, and purification. They reveal how the Christian life is meant to transform surroundings, push back darkness, and ignite spiritual fervour.
In a decaying world, God calls us to be salt—preserving righteousness and adding divine flavour. In a dark generation, we must shine as lights that show the way and expose truth. Fire represents the intensity and passion of our walk with God, burning away impurities and igniting revival.
This teaching will examine the role of every believer as salt, light, and fire—calling us to practical action, spiritual zeal, and holy influence in our time.
1. BELIEVERS ARE CALLED TO BE SALT ON EARTH
Salt symbolises preservation, purity, and value in the life of a believer.
a) Salt preserves from decay.
Believers are agents of moral and spiritual preservation in society.
b) Salt adds taste and value.
Christians bring joy, hope, and godliness to a tasteless world.
c) Salt must retain its savour.
If we lose our spiritual effectiveness, we become irrelevant.
d) Salt must be applied to have impact.
We must be present and active in the world to influence it.
Biblical Example: Lot's presence delayed God's judgement on Sodom until he left (Genesis 19:22-26).
2. BELIEVERS ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
Light dispels darkness and reveals truth to those around us.
a) Light exposes what is hidden.
Our lives should reveal the truth and bring conviction to sin.
b) Light shows the way.
As guides, we help others find their path to God.
c) Light cannot be hidden.
True believers cannot remain invisible in society.
d) Light must shine consistently.
Our influence must be seen through good works and love.
Biblical Example: John the Baptist was a burning and shining light, preparing the way for Christ (John 5:35).
3. GOD EXPECTS US TO BURN WITH HOLY FIRE
Fire represents passion, purification, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
a) Fire purifies and refines.
God uses fire to cleanse us and make us holy.
b) Fire represents divine passion.
We must serve God with zeal, not lukewarmness.
c) Fire brings revival.
When the fire falls, lives are changed, and nations are awakened.
d) Fire must be kept burning.
We must maintain our spiritual fire through prayer and devotion.
Biblical Example: Elijah called down fire from heaven, proving the power of God (1 Kings 18:36–38).
4. COMBINING SALT, LIGHT AND FIRE FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT
These three elements together define a powerful Christian life.
a) Salt gives influence.
Our godly character preserves those around us.
b) Light gives direction.
Our lifestyle and testimony point others to Jesus.
c) Fire gives power.
Our spiritual fervency empowers us to overcome and minister.
d) Together, they create transformation.
A believer who is salty, bright, and burning will change their environment.
Biblical Example: The early Church was salt, light, and fire, turning their world upside down (Acts 17:6).
5. DANGERS OF LOSING SALTINESS, DIMMING LIGHT AND QUENCHING FIRE
God warns us not to neglect our responsibility and spiritual state.
a) A tasteless salt is useless.
When believers compromise, they lose relevance and impact.
b) A hidden light serves no purpose.
Keeping faith private robs others of guidance.
c) A quenched fire is dangerous.
Without passion, the Church becomes powerless and cold.
d) Restoration is possible.
God can rekindle fire, restore flavour, and make light shine again.
Biblical Example: The Church in Laodicea was rebuked for being lukewarm and had to return to fervency (Revelation 3:15–19).
CONCLUSION:
As salt, light, and fire, God has empowered us to make a difference in the world. These symbols show that Christianity is not passive; it is active, vibrant, and transformational. You are meant to preserve, to shine, and to burn for God.
Now more than ever, the world needs believers who will not lose their savour, hide their light, or quench their fire. Arise and let your life reflect Christ in flavour, brightness, and fervent passion.
