What does it mean
to be the 'salt of the earth?'

What does it mean
to be the 'salt of the earth?'

Q. I would like to know what Jesus meant when he told his disciples they were the 'salt of the earth.'

(Submitted by: S. H.)

A. We read in Matthew 5:13 :

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men." (NKJV throughout, unless otherwise stated.)

This directive is part Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount and immediately followed what has become known as the Beatitudes, which were 8 in number, emphasizing to us how to be happy (or blessed). Salt is a mineral with lasting effects. It is essential to good health. Blood, sweat and tears are salty.

Parallel scriptures to Matthew 5:13 are:

"For everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt. Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another." (Mark 9:49-50)

"Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? it is neither fit for the land nor for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" (Luke 14: 34-35)

"Salt is good [an excellent thing], but if salt has lost its strength and has become saltless (insipid, flat), how shall its saltiness be restored? It is fit neither for the land nor for the manure heap; men throw it away. He who has ears to hear, let him listen and consider and comprehend by hearing!" (Luke 14:34-35, Amplified Bible)

What is Jesus telling us when he says, "You are the salt of the earth?" He is saying that those who follow Him are like salt: They are called to make a difference in the world. Back in Matthew 5:14-16 Jesus tells His followers:

"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."

The difference we make is "the flavor" -- the good works we do are to shine like a light on a lampstand, good works that witness for Christ in a darkened world. Those who believe and obey God are the salt of the earth.