Kingdom Influence Part 15 with Discussion Guide

BySteve

Kingdom Influence Part 15 Discussion Guide

Summary

In this sermon, the pastor explores Jesus’ teaching that believers are “the salt of the earth” from Matthew 5:13-16. He emphasizes that this is identity language – we ARE salt, not trying to become salt. The message focuses on three key characteristics of salt: it influences quietly (working behind the scenes to change entire environments), it adds flavor (bringing life and grace to situations), and it slows decay (preserving what is good and overcoming evil with good). The pastor shares a personal story about choosing to be salt rather than “salty” after Hurricane Irma, demonstrating how Kingdom influence comes from presence and character rather than platform or power. The sermon concludes with practical application, encouraging believers to recognize their God-given influence, pay attention to where God has placed them, and use the “THINK” filter before speaking (Thoughtful, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind). The central message is that Kingdom influence flows from who we are becoming in Christ, not from what we do, and that our presence as salt can transform the world around us through quiet, consistent Kingdom character.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for gathering us together today. Lord, we acknowledge that You have called us to be salt and light in this world, and we ask for Your Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us through this time together. Help us to set aside our distractions and preconceived notions, and make us receptive to Your voice. Lord, we pray that You would speak to each person here according to their specific needs and circumstances. Give us ears to hear, hearts to receive, and the courage to apply what You show us. We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What’s your favorite way to use salt in cooking, or what’s a dish that just isn’t the same without the right amount of salt?

Key Verses

  • Matthew 5:13-16
  • Colossians 4:5-6
  • John 10:10
  • Romans 12:9-21

Questions

  • Jesus says ‘you ARE the salt of the earth’ rather than ‘try to be salt.’ How does understanding this as identity language change your perspective on Kingdom influence?
  • The pastor mentioned that ‘salt influences quietly.’ Can you think of a time when someone influenced you through their quiet presence rather than their words or actions?
  • What’s the difference between being ‘salty’ (having an attitude) and being ‘salt’ (bringing positive influence)? Share an example of when you’ve seen this distinction play out.
  • How does salt ‘adding flavor’ relate to bringing the life of Jesus into everyday situations? What would this look like in your workplace, family, or community?
  • The sermon mentioned that salt ‘slows decay’ and preserves what’s good. How can we practically ‘overcome evil with good’ in our current cultural climate?
  • Using the THINK acronym (Thoughtful, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind), which of these filters do you find most challenging when it comes to your speech?
  • The pastor asked, ‘How can I bring the life of Jesus into this situation?’ What specific situations in your life come to mind where you could apply this question?
  • Kingdom influence is described as coming from ‘presence’ rather than ‘platform.’ How does this challenge our culture’s understanding of influence and impact?

Life Application

This week, practice being intentional salt in your everyday environments. Before speaking in conversations, use the THINK filter: ask yourself if what you’re about to say is Thoughtful, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind. Additionally, identify one specific place where God has positioned you (work, home, neighborhood, etc.) and consciously look for opportunities to bring the life of Jesus into that environment through your presence and character rather than trying to force conversations or create opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • We ARE the salt of the earth – this is our identity in Christ, not something we need to achieve or manufacture
  • Salt influences quietly, working behind the scenes to change entire environments through presence rather than performance
  • Salt adds flavor by bringing life, grace, and the goodness of Jesus into every situation we encounter
  • Salt slows decay by preserving what is good and overcoming evil with good through Kingdom character
  • Kingdom influence comes from who we are becoming in Christ, not from having a platform, power, or recognition

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to be salt in this world. Help us to embrace this identity You’ve given us and to live it out with humility and intentionality. As we go from this place, give us wisdom to know how to bring Your life into every situation we encounter. Help us to influence quietly through our presence, to add Your flavor to our conversations and relationships, and to preserve what is good in our communities. When we’re tempted to be ‘salty’ with others, remind us to be salt instead. Use us, Lord, right where You’ve placed us, to make a difference for Your Kingdom. May our lives reflect Your character and draw others to You. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.

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