Matthew 5 began with the Beatitudes. It carries on next with the Similitudes. These are a couple of brief comparisons found in verses 13-16.

According to the dictionary, a similitude is a “likening or comparison in the form of a simile, parable, or allegory.” This is the next literary device that Jesus employs after giving the Beatitudes. These two comparisons are probably some of the most recognized passages in Scripture.

First of all, Jesus compares his followers and disciples to the salt of the earth, in Matthew 5:13. Salt is a substance that helps to prevent decay. Pure salt does not lose its savor. It helps to preserve. However, salt that has been diluted with other elements, or has been in contact with the ground, loses its ability to preserve.

This is likely what Jesus had in mind when he gave this statement. As believers, if we become so diluted by the world, we no longer have the ability to make a positive contribution. To lose our “saltiness” is to lose our opportunities to be used by God as agents of renewal and restoration.

Once salt has lost its particular qualities that allow it to be used as a flavoring agent and as a preserving agent, it is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and discarded. So too with believers. A believer who isn’t “salty” doesn’t fulfill the purposes designed and assigned by God.

This comparison, as much as it draws the imagination, also carries a severe warning: stay salty!

Next, Matthew turns to the second similitude Jesus gives, in verses 14 through 16. Here, Jesus compares believers to light, and calls us the light of the world. That in itself is interesting, because Jesus calls himself the light of the world in John 8:12. Here in Mathew, he adds his followers into the mix, and uses the same phrase. Is he stating that we are light, just like he is? Or does he mean that we are a reflection of his light in this world in which we live? I think the latter is more likely, but it’s an interesting thought nonetheless.

But think about light for a moment. Light dispels darkness. Light enables us to see our way. That’s exactly what Jesus does. In fact, Jesus said it like this in John 14:6: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”

Light is meant to be seen. Light is not meant to be shuttered. Just like a city was placed upon the top of a hill. For the sake of defense, ancient cities were located on hilltops. Because of this, they could be seen for a great distance. Light cannot be hidden. And in the same way, believers must be a visible source of his light.

Why? Because through the light that we reflect, Jesus can be clearly seen, and so that God will receive the glory and praise due his name. If, through my actions and words, people can see Christ, then I am fulfilling the mission for which God has created me.

And that’s a pretty good motive to keep serving.

Question: Which of these comparisons capture your attention the best? How well do you reflect his light through your life? You can leave a comment by clicking here.