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Explanation for:
Matthew
5
:
13
You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt lose its savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is good for nothing any more but to be cast out, and to be trodden on by men.
15
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The Apostles are referred to as salt because, through them, all of humanity is sustained for eternity. If salt becomes ineffective and loses its savor, how can it be restored to its original flavor? When a teacher himself strays into error, he may find correction through others. It becomes worthless—similar to the agricultural metaphor where salt is essential for food preparation and preserving meat, serving no other purpose. Yet, the Scriptures tell us of cities that were devastated through salt. It is noted that some towns were treated with salt by conquerors to ensure that not a single plant would grow in the soil. Therefore, teachers should remain vigilant, recognizing that the powerful will face severe consequences, and there is no cure for their downfall: the remnants of once-great figures will be cast down into perdition."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"After providing the disciples with thorough guidance, the Lord reassures them with commendation. Given that the commandments were more profound and challenging than those of the Old Testament, He sought to prevent the disciples from becoming unsettled or questioning their ability to fulfill them. He proclaimed, \\"Ye are the salt of the earth,\\" indicating the inherent necessity of such commands. Christ emphasized that the teachings entrusted to them were not meant solely for their personal conduct but were to have an impact on the entire world. He stated, \\"I am not sending you to just a few cities or a single nation as the prophets did of old, but to the land and the sea, to the entirety of creation, which is rife with evil.\\"\\n\\nIn proclaiming, \\"You are the salt of the earth,\\" Christ highlighted the darkness and corruption that sin brings upon humanity. This is why He required His disciples to embody virtues particularly essential for the restoration of others. A person who is humble, gentle, merciful, and just does not act for personal gain; instead, they strive to share their goodness for the benefit of others. Likewise, those who are pure in heart, peacemakers, and endure persecution for righteousness live for the welfare of everyone. Thus, Christ cautioned them not to underestimate the significance of their role, implying that they were not assigned trivial tasks. Their mission was not to merely correct what was already flawed; salt does not heal corruption. Rather, they were to enhance and preserve what had already been renewed, upholding the transformation they received from the Lord. It was Christ's mission to cleanse the stench of sin, but it fell upon the apostles to ensure that the reformed do not regress to their former state.\\n\\nNotice how progressively Christ elevates the disciples above even the prophets. He refers to them as teachers not just for Palestine, but for the entire world, and not merely teachers but significant ones. It is remarkable that these disciples, honored not through flattery but through self-control, akin to salt, received respect from all. Therefore, Christ encourages them not to be astonished if He, forsaking others, chooses to engage and prepare them for numerous trials. He speaks of sending them to various cities, nations, and tongues to instruct others, which necessitates that they themselves remain wise and virtuous. The responsibility of leading others to salvation weighs heavily on them, demanding a richness of virtue to be able to impart it effectively. Failing in this duty not only jeopardizes the salvation of others but their own as well.\\n\\nSo, do not be disheartened if Christ’s teachings feel burdensome. Through you, many who have strayed may find their way back, but should you lose your essential qualities, you risk leading others into ruin alongside yourselves. The magnitude of your responsibilities should inspire greater diligence. This is why Christ warns, \\"But if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden underfoot of men.\\" While others may be forgiven for various sins, the teacher carries a heavier burden; when they err, there is no justification, and they must face the gravest consequences.\\n\\nChrist reassures the disciples, reminding them that despite potential slander or false accusations, they should not shy away from proclaiming their message publicly. Instead of fearing verbal attacks, they must avoid presenting themselves as hypocrites, for doing so would expose them as foolish and deserving of derision. Conversely, if they maintain their integrity and endure slander for it, they are to rejoice. The nature of salt is such that its sharpness may not be appreciated by those who prefer sweetness. While persecution may arise from their resolve, it cannot harm them; rather, it will affirm their steadfastness. Yet if they let fear of criticism deter them from their rightful boldness, they will face significant pitfalls—ultimately leading them to be reviled and looked down upon, embodying the meaning of being trampled upon."},{"author-name":"Hilarius of Poitiers","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88cb92f12b3278598f946_Hilarius%20of%20Poitiers.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The phrase \\"salt of the earth\\" may seem trivial at first glance, but Christ's reference to the apostles as such carries profound significance. The implications of this description should be examined, as they relate both to the apostles' mission and to the essential qualities of salt. Salt is formed from two elements, water and fire, combining them into a single substance. It serves humanity by preserving meat from corruption and enhancing the flavor of various dishes. The apostles act as messengers of divine truths, akin to sowers who plant seeds of everlasting life within those who receive their teachings. As John attested, they were perfected through the baptism of water and the Spirit. Consequently, those who dedicate their lives to eternity, enriched by the transformative power of Christ's teachings, rightfully earn the designation of \\"salt of the earth.\\"\\n\\nThus, when Christ names His followers the salt of the earth, He urges them to remain steadfast in the authority bestowed upon them. Should they stray from this power, they risk losing their ability to influence others, becoming tasteless and ineffective. In their failure to preserve the corruptible, they would be cast out from the treasures of the Church, vulnerable to being marginalized like those they were meant to uplift."},{"author-name":"Macarius the Egyptian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c894b8dd64f2df5bcb2030_Macarius%20the%20Egyptian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"As the Apostles served as both messengers and preservers, they infused each believer with the sanctifying essence of the Holy Spirit. The Lord proclaimed, \\"Ye are the salt of the earth,\\" illustrating human souls as the earth; they enriched these souls with the divine flavor of the Spirit, thereby protecting them from decay and corruption. Just as meat without salt deteriorates and emits an unpleasant odor, driving people away, so too does a soul devoid of the Holy Spirit decay and become tainted by the foulness of wicked thoughts. The presence of pests, akin to demons and dark forces, infests rotting flesh, devouring and corrupting it. As it is written, “my wounds are dead and bent” (Psalm 37:6). However, when a soul turns to God, embraces faith, and yearns for the life-giving salt of the benevolent Spirit, this heavenly essence eradicates the foul spirits within, dispels the noxious scent, and cleanses the soul through its transformative power. Consequently, once the true salt has restored the soul to health, it is fit once more for the service of the divine Master. To signify this truth, the Law directed that all sacrifices be seasoned with salt (Lev. 2:13). The discourse continues with an allegorical interpretation of the vision given to the Prophet Ezekiel."},{"author-name":"Cyrill of Alexandria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a8ea5c988a4fc073480_Cyrill%20of%20Alexandria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"He refers to salt as the wisdom that enriches the apostolic message. When this wisdom takes root within us, it imparts the word of truth, which, due to its richness and appeal, is likened to salt. Just as bread and fish are inedible without salt, so too is every soul rendered foolish, unwell, and distasteful to God without the insight and instruction of the apostles."},{"author-name":"Chromatius of Aquileia","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a3df6d7a747a33b4f4a_Chromatius%20of%20Aquileia.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"He illustrates that those who lose their spiritual vigor are individuals who were once illuminated by faith and divine understanding, and ought to have remained steadfast. Instead, by abandoning faith and heavenly wisdom, they succumb to false teachings or revert to irrational beliefs. Therefore, He states, “If the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?” Such individuals, having been ensnared by the adversary and stripped of their strength and the grace of God, become feeble. Even though they had the potential to “season” others with the truth of divine preaching, they prove to be ineffective even for their own sake. A prime example of this is Judas Iscariot. After turning away from divine wisdom and renouncing his role as an apostle, he became not only incapable of aiding others but also worthless to himself."},{"author-name":"Gregory the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88c2b032f5f6e5effaa54_Gregory%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":6,"exegesis-text":"If we are indeed the salt of the earth, it is our duty to transform the spirits of the faithful. So, dear shepherds, consider that you are guiding the flock entrusted to you by God. About this flock, the Psalmist expresses, “Thy animals live on her” (Psalm 67:11). It is common to see a salt lick placed before livestock so that they may benefit from it. In the same manner, a priest must serve as that rock of salt among the people. It is essential for the priest to be mindful of his words to each individual, offering encouragement tailored to their condition so that those who engage with him may taste of Eternal Life, akin to the effect of salt. We cease to be the salt of the earth if we fail to enrich the hearts of our listeners. What then should we call the souls of humanity if not the nourishment of the Lord, created to be united with His body—that is, to contribute to the growth of His Eternal Church? We are meant to be the seasoning for this divine feast. As aforementioned, the preachers are commissioned, “Ye are the salt of the earth.\\" Therefore, if the people constitute God’s nourishment, then it is the priests who must provide the flavor for that nourishment. However, when we neglect holy preaching and teaching, our saltiness diminishes, rendering us ineffective in seasoning God’s food. Consequently, that which is not saved due to our negligence cannot be accepted by the Host. Let us reflect on those who have repented due to our words, who have amended their conduct through our admonitions, who have abandoned worldly pleasures at our guidance, who have renounced greed and pride. What good have we done for God? After receiving our divine calling, what have we accomplished? He states, “I will buy the work, till I come” (Luke 19:13). Look, He is already on His way; He demands the fruits of our labor. What will we present Him as the fruit of our efforts? How many souls shall we offer to Him as a result of our preaching? Let us envision that fearsome day when the Judge will arrive to reconcile accounts with His servants to whom He entrusted talents. He will reveal Himself in glorious majesty surrounded by angelic hosts. At this grand judgment, both the righteous and the unrighteous will stand before Him, each to declare their deeds. There, Peter will present converted Judea; Paul, with his followers from all nations; Andrew, John, and Thomas will likewise lead their flocks to their King—each representing Achaia, Asia, and India respectively. All who belong to the Lord's flock shall stand before Him, presenting the souls they nurtured through their sacred sermons. In that moment, what can we say of ourselves, those of us who, having served, return to our Lord empty-handed, bearing the title of shepherd without the flock we were to have cultivated? Here we are named shepherds, yet we present no flock. Is it not true that when we are negligent, even the Almighty may forsake His sheep? Certainly not, for He Himself tends to them, just as He promised through the Prophet (Ezekiel 34)—He guides all who are destined for life with gentle admonitions and a spirit of humility. Though it is through us that believers attain holy renewal, are blessed by our intercessions, and receive the Holy Spirit through our ordained hands, they ascend to the kingdom of heaven, whereas we spiral downward due to our shortcomings. The elect, cleansed by the priests' hands, enter their heavenly homeland while the priests, by their sinful existence, rush toward hell's judgment. How shall we compare the unworthy priests if not to baptismal waters that cleanse the baptized and lead them to the Kingdom of Heaven, only to flow into polluted places afterwards? Let us be wary, brethren; let our ministry reflect our mission. Let us daily seek forgiveness for our sins so that our lives are not mired in sin, even as God continually absolves others through us. Let us constantly evaluate ourselves, our responsibilities, and the burden we carry. Daily, we must hold ourselves accountable in preparation for the assessment from our Judge. While caring for ourselves, we must not neglect our duty to others, ensuring that every person who associates with us is influenced by the saltiness of our words. When we encounter someone idle and beguiled, we should encourage them to channel their passions appropriately so they may learn to overcome the forbidden. When addressing a married man, we ought to guide him to navigate his worldly obligations without forsaking his devotion to God and to honor his wife without compromising what pleases the Creator. When we see a clergyman, we should urge him to lead a life that sets a positive example for the laity, to ensure that no shortcomings in his character undermine our Faith. When we encounter a monk, we must inspire him to maintain a respectful demeanor in every action and thought, to abandon worldly distractions and present himself to God as his title demands. For those already holy, let us encourage their growth in holiness; for those who remain unholy, let us guide their transformation, that each one who communes with the priest may be enriched by the salt of his message. Contemplate this, dear brethren, and instill it among your neighbors; prepare to offer fruitful service in the glory of Almighty God."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The prophets were dispatched to a specific people, yet you are the salt of the earth, empowering the fragile through instruction and admonition, ensuring they do not give rise to lasting decay. Therefore, embrace the hardships of correction, even in the face of hostility and persecution. If an instructor fails to teach, neglects to admonish, and grows complacent, what will he receive in return for his lack of guidance? He shall lose his position of authority and be held in contempt."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"You are the salt of the earth. In this statement, He refers to humanity as being earthy, as if they were molded from the ground. It suggests that all people have succumbed to the decay of sin, corrupted by the dampness of their desires; thus, you who have been selected by Me to mend this deterioration of the world are the salt of humanity. You receive from Me the wisdom to restrain and govern them, to vanquish the hidden pests—namely, sinful thoughts—and to defend against the foulness of transgressions. The prophets were sent to one nation, yet you are salt for the entire earth, guiding and correcting the lustful to prevent them from fostering eternal decay. However, do not shy away from the necessity of reprimand, even if met with persecution. Hence He states: But if the salt has lost its savor, with what will it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden underfoot by men. If a teacher becomes timid, refraining from admonishing and correcting, what will restore their seasoning? Such a one is then removed from the honor of teaching and held in contempt. The weakening of salt signifies a decrease in its effectiveness. Therefore, He urges: Reflect on the responsibility entrusted to you, and strive not to falter in the face of trials, slander, and gossip, lest you lose your beneficial power. If the salt loses its flavor, how can it be made salty again? You are the finest salt, and there is none other like you. Since you have been chosen for this vital role above all others, you ought to be especially vigilant to avoid being accused of frailty and inaction, as well as the ruin of those who have succumbed to decay. Nothing else equals the salt that has lost its effectiveness; it is cast out from the Lord's presence and looked down upon by others. There are, therefore, two responsibilities assigned to you—to be salt and light; first to remain untainted and then to be instructed."},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The comparison of the Apostles to the salt of the earth emphasizes the profound significance of their mission in establishing human salvation. They were selected to proclaim the divine truth not limited to a single Jewish nation, as the ancient prophets were, but to all corners of the globe. This analogy also reflects the fallen state of humanity's nature, which was condemned through the figure of Adam with God's judgment: You are dust, and to dust you shall return (Gen. 5:19). \\n\\nSalt is one of the most essential substances in creation, vital for the survival of every living being, whether animal or plant. Without it, even the most exquisite meals become unappetizing and harmful. St. Chrysostom highlights that the primary function of salt is to prevent decay and to restore life that has already begun to rot. This mirrors the condition of human nature when left to its own devices; it deteriorates, and the corrosive nature of sin would lead to eternal separation from God, were it not for the intervention of the life-giving Word of God the Father, Jesus Christ our Lord, who revitalizes humanity through His powerful and sacrificial death on the cross.\\n\\nAs ministers of God's Word, the apostles are designated as the salt of the earth; they are tasked with imparting this salt to the sinful souls of humanity by sharing the truth of God's Word, guiding them toward genuine faith, and sustaining them in spiritual vitality by shielding them from the debilitating effects of sin. This underscores the critical nature of their vocation. \\n\\nIn light of this responsibility, the Savior commands them to maintain their own holiness and to proclaim the truth boldly. He cautions, \\"If the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?\\" It becomes worthless, fit only to be cast out and trampled underfoot by men. When an unsanctioned individual strays from the path of truth and sins, they still have a guide to restore them, and their transgressions can be forgiven upon repentance. However, if a teacher of the truth descends into such folly, either out of fear of persecution or personal gain, and distorts God's Word to appease human passions, who will redirect them? What purpose will they serve? God will withdraw His grace from such an unfaithful servant. Meanwhile, the very souls they seek to appease will look upon them with rightful disdain, while true and unyielding righteousness commands respect even amidst the most sinful adversaries."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"You denotes both the disciples of the Lord who were closest to Him and all true followers of Christ. The phrase the salt of the earth is metaphorical. Salt acts as a preservative, preventing food from spoiling and enhancing its flavor. Similarly, Christians are called to protect the world from moral decay through their deeds, conduct, and example, thereby fostering moral integrity. Through their prayers, believers invite God’s blessings upon the world, and by living righteously, they exert a positive moral influence that shields society from vice and wrongdoing, nurturing and fortifying virtuous thoughts and practices.\\n\\nIf the salt were to lose its savor, it becomes ineffective; although this scenario seems far-fetched, the Lord hypothetically posits it for consideration. Travelers report that in certain regions, there exists salt that can entirely lose its potency, rendering it useless and fit only to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. One traveler noted near Aleppo that he discovered such salt exposed to rain, sun, and air; although it appeared glittery, it had completely lost its flavor. Nevertheless, its internal components remained potent. \\n\\nThe figurative implication in Christ's statement is clear: if you, my disciples and teachers of all nations, were to lose your inner moral fortitude and influence in the world, what could restore that power and impact? There would be nothing. Without the ability to rejuvenate the world and protect it from further corruption, you would be powerless. What could then uplift you or enable you to renew the world? Without such capabilities, you too would become like tasteless salt, cast out and trampled. Particularly for a teacher, should he abandon his duty by failing to instruct, reprove, and guide, he would find himself devoid of purpose and deserving of contempt."},{"author-name":"Kochomski S.W.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The apostles were selected to serve as the salt of the earth, intended to safeguard humanity from spiritual decay through their teachings and exemplary lives. Should salt lose its seasoning, there would be no means to restore its flavor, rendering it useless. Likewise, if the apostles forsake the integrity of their faith and the sanctity of their lives, where will they find what they need to regain what they have forfeited?"},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The assembly surrounding Jesus yearned for the restoration of Israel's kingdom, envisioning earthly blessings pouring forth abundantly in this realm, eagerly anticipating the long-awaited joys of His reign, and prepared to acknowledge Him as the King of Israel. Yet, they learned from Him that such joy in this kingdom would not be theirs, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, chosen by God to govern all nations, but would instead belong to the spiritually poor, those who mourn, the meek, those hungry for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, and the peacemakers, who often find themselves oppressed and persecuted. Many among them assumed these teachings did not pertain to them, believing they would enter the Messianic kingdom solely by virtue of being Jewish. If Jesus suggested that they, too, should exhibit humility and grieve for their sins, they would doubt His identity as the Messiah. This sentiment was prevalent among the scribes and Pharisees listening to Him, as well as many Jews influenced by their erroneous views. However, Christ was not addressing them directly. The twelve apostles, recently chosen, stood before Him—humble laborers, uneducated and impoverished, speaking a little-known tongue; these fishermen and tax collectors were tasked with spreading His message throughout the world and bringing it under His dominion. He articulated to them the traits they must embody to not only enter the heavenly kingdom but also guide others there, outlining the trials they would encounter and the steadfastness needed to overcome opposition, endure persecution, and prevail against the forces of darkness. Aware that such unwavering strength could not originate from their own abilities, and recognizing that the prospect of impending persecution might sow doubt in their hearts, Christ presented His teachings of the Beatitudes systematically. He conveyed that the humble (poor in spirit) will mourn for their sins; those who mourn will become meek, thirst for righteousness, and show mercy; the merciful will possess a pure heart and promote peace. Attaining these qualities would ensure they would not be fearful of slander, persecution, or suffering; they would be distinguished as the finest and most virtuous of people, set apart from others like salt is different from the earth. The essence of Jesus’ message can be summarized as follows: \\"If you fulfill all My commandments that I have just shared, you will not fear persecution. You will be like the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13); your spirit will be so empowered that nothing can hinder the spread of My teaching; all human malice and affliction will be powerless against the strength of your resolute spirit. Conversely, if you stray from My commandments, you will forfeit this power. In losing it, you will cease to be effective in My salvific mission, akin to salt that has lost its flavor and is rendered worthless; you will not only face persecution but also be disregarded as those who have faltered in truth, becoming like salt that has lost its essence, discarded for others to walk upon.\\""},{"author-name":"Ivanov A.V.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88db13197efab881aa332_Ivanov%20A.V..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The analogy of the chosen disciples as salt underscores their profound significance on earth and outlines the essential virtues they must embody. Salt serves the dual purpose of enhancing the flavor of food and preserving items from decay. The apostles and their successors are called to uplift the lives and dignity of their congregation through their exemplary attributes and to safeguard them from moral decay through their actions. However, just as with all substances, salt can lose its qualities. In warm climates, it is not uncommon for salt to diminish in effectiveness; exposed to intense sunlight, it undergoes chemical changes, maintaining its outward appearance but losing its true properties. As a result, it becomes useless and is discarded as worthless."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world. Those who create and teach will be called great... In providing the disciples with such profound and challenging directives, the Lord illustrates the necessity of these commandments: the instruction entrusted to you is not for your benefit alone, but for all of creation. The entire world is tainted by the odor of sin; through my teachings, you must eliminate this foulness. YOU ARE THE SALT OF THE EARTH. Just as salt enhances the flavor of food, you, My disciples, must lead others to become My followers; just a small amount of salt can transform food into something delicious and nourishing; likewise, your influence, though modest, will spread My teachings throughout the globe. Salt preserves food from decay; thus, you are to protect humanity from the decay of sin through my redemptive teachings, your prayers, and the witness of your holy lives. However, if you become flawed and succumb to error, you risk leading others astray. IF SALT LOSES ITS TASTE, HOW CAN IT BE SALT? If a teacher abandons wisdom, fails to instruct, admonish, and guide, and becomes complacent, what remedy is there for such negligence? It is rendered useless, only fit to be discarded for others to walk upon. Similarly, an unworthy instructor should be stripped of the privilege to teach and regarded with contempt. If you, My disciples, were to lose My grace, what could then revitalize you? What would empower you to effectuate the renewal of the world? You will endure scorn, but this is expected. Salt is not palatable to those who prefer sweetness, and thus, you may not be embraced by those who cherish sin; they will pursue you with hostility, but do not fear: they cannot truly harm you. Should you allow the fear of slander to sway you from the necessary strength, you will be held in derision, which constitutes being trampled underfoot. Although salt can have a sharp, strong flavor, it is welcomed as an ingredient in food; similarly, your steadfastness and patience should amaze your adversaries, the Gentiles, and through this, they will come to recognize My truth. What is this extraordinary strength that designates the disciples of Christ as the salt of the earth? It is the grace of the Holy Spirit residing in the pure soul of the believer. This grace also renders them the light of the world."}]}
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