Referring to kingdom citizens as the salt of the earth is one of the classic statements found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:13).  It is practical, useful, and understandable because salt is such a common commodity. While there are literally dozens of uses for salt, two come to mind when thinking about the importance of influence.

First, salt flavors.  Bland food becomes more palatable when a little salt is sprinkled on it. Even so, as Christians, we should have a flavoring influence on those around us.  In other words, influence our society in such a way that we bring out the best in others.  Those we work with should see our Christianity in action and therefore watch what they say around us.  Many will gossip and curse less when they are working around Christians whose speech is seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6) and who just generally live a life that is in harmony with the gospel.   This is why Paul once told the saints at Philippi to live worthy lives.

Philippians 1:27 (ESV)
²⁷  Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.

When we do this, people around us take note and sometimes act better.  This is how we influence moral flavor in our communities.

Salt is also a preserving agent.  It cleanses and disinfects.  “In the ancient world salt was the most common of all preservatives. It was used to ward off rot and decay! It was rubbed into meat to preserve it and to keep things from going bad, and hold putrefaction at bay. It preserves from corruption. The chlorine that salt contains has antiseptic qualities” (Rod Mattoon, Mattoon’s Treasures).

In a world where homes are under satanic attack, nothing can preserve their integrity and godliness more than the presence of two parents who are Christians.  While the world is in a moral mess, just think what it would be like if there were no Christians in it. Think of the world just before the flood, or of Sodom and Gomorrah.   Surely the presence of God’s children in the world has had a positive and preserving influence on it.

Proverbs 14:34 (ESV)
³⁴  Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.

Yes, as Christians, we are indeed the salt of the earth.  However, let’s remember two things.  First, if we lose our taste we are no longer good for anything.

Matthew 5:13 (ESV)
¹³  “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.

Second, salt left in the box has no impact at all. For salt to have an impact on anything, it has to make contact.  If we are going to have a positive influence on the world, we have to get out of the box and contact people.

As you wind down for the night, think about these things.