WEEK 1 SERMON DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR GROUPS

The power of influence

Introduction:

Who you are, what you are, and where you are today are because certain people influenced you. The company you keep influences your thinking and actions, which in turn influences your character. Your character determines your destiny. Influence is impossible to escape.

Bottom line: What’s the purpose of my influence?

Something To Talk About:

As followers of Jesus, we can influence those around us by how we live. The key is to recognize the opportunity we have to influence their friends, family, and those they interact with every day. True influence goes beyond good morals – it flows from being salt and light. As Jesus followers, we are called to flavor and brighten this world and show our love of God so that others can see.

Salt: Ever smelled old, rotten meat? Remember forgetting something you put in the refrigerator for several weeks? Think about Biblical times when refrigeration didn’t exist. Salt was important. Salt has many different uses. First, salt preserves food. Before refrigeration, people salted foods, which made them last significantly longer than they did when left unsalted. Salt also adds flavor to foods. “You are the salt of the earth.” ( Matthew 5:13). This was an obvious metaphor for how they should impact the world around them. What does it mean when Jesus calls you to be the salt of the earth? Salt also adds flavor. It makes food tastier and more pleasing. Similarly, the presence of a believer should add zest, joy, and zip to a home, a workplace, or a community. Jesus uses those who love and follow Him to help preserve this fallen world that has turned its back on Him. Jesus also uses you to spread the Word in a way that is easier for others to understand. Salt brings out distinct flavors in food, just as believers radiate His joy and share His love to add flavor to the world. Look for ways today to be the salt of the earth in your words and actions. How you do it is up to you, but you’re here to make a difference. You are at your best when you connect with others. You are at your best when serving others and engaging to bless others.
Light: In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV). A little bit of light impacts a lot of darkness. The inky blackness of a cave is not so ominous once you turn on a flashlight. Light also gives comfort throughout the night. And light — the sun bursting through the rainclouds — brings hope and joy with each new day. This is why Jesus called His followers to let their lights “shine before men.” Those who have named Jesus as Savior and Lord can shine this kind of comforting, joyful light to people. When you walk with God, His Spirit shines your light before others so people see your good works and the love of God within you. God has given you the gift of light within you. May you use it for His glory. After all, a little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness. As you go about your day today, remember that you have received Christ’s love.

Discussion Questions:

Why do you think Jesus used the metaphor of His disciples being salt and light immediately after discussing the Beatitudes?
Discuss what Jesus meant when He said to His disciples in v13, “You are the salt of the earth”? (Think of some of the uses of salt in Jesus’ day – a precious commodity for trade, preservation, adding flavor, and healing. What does this say about us and our potential effect on society?)
What do we usually think it means to be “the salt of the earth?” Who is or are “the salt of the earth?” Why? That is – what makes these people “salty.”
With that in mind, what does Jesus’ comment about salt that has “lost its taste” seem to refer to? What does Jesus seem to be warning His audience against? How does this apply to us?
How can you fulfill your calling to be “salt” in your workplace, family, neighborhood,
What do we normally think it means to be “the light of the world?” What does this “light” seem to refer to? What does it mean to “let it shine before others?”
Both a city on a hill, and a lamp on lampstand, have been put where they are on purpose. What do those two illustrations add to our understanding of what being “the light of the world” means? How can you fulfill your calling to be “salt” in your workplace, family, neighborhood?
What is an area in your life that needs more light?
When and where do you struggle the most with related to this sermon? How would the next week be different if you incorporated this truth into your own life?
What is the biggest takeaway from this message?

Take one thing home with you:

The Bible reminds us that God ultimately grants favor. He can supernaturally change hearts and open doors. He can enable us to do what seems impossible. However, the Bible also reminds us that we can influence the response of others through our words and actions.

If we want this favor with others, we must apply Biblical principles. This means showing compassion and concern, letting people know that we care. Instead of focusing on ourselves, it requires us to listen and show a genuine interest in the problems of others. We must demonstrate the love of God, pray for people’s needs, if we want to have influence.