Matthew 5:13,14 “You are the salt of the earth … You are the light of the world.”
In the 1970s, Francis Schaeffer, co-founder of l’Abri, wrote the book, “How Should We Then Live.” Step by step, Schaeffer penned an in-depth response to this question by asking practical questions: “What is the best belief system to use as a foundation?” or “How should such a belief impact one’s life and the society in which one lives?” As a young Christian, I was challenged by his proposal that a biblical world view should not only alter my life, but my world. If true, it would change Christian belief from a private matter to a serious responsibility of stewardship and mentoring. His practical ideas on being salt and light presented questions that required serious consideration: “What exactly does the Bible propose? How is it instructing me to live? Is it a call to live in a manner separated from the world or to live in a way that will impact society just as yeast impacts the dough?” and ultimately – “What do I confess to believe and how can I live that belief in the world?”
During his life, Schaeffer taught Christians how to address confusion and false teachings that were eroding truth in every area of society (schools, politics, arts, and even churches). He introduced clarity, respectful dialogue, and critical thinking to many young believers. He warned the Church that if we are not educating ourselves and our children in how we should live, the world’s systems would do the work for us – with negative consequences. Now, more than ever, his warning should be heeded as social media and information platforms promote conformity to the mindset of the world. Many universities and schools are failing in educating students while indoctrinating them to a singular, dangerous world view. As followers of Jesus, “How should we then live?” is beyond a question of personal belief to one of social responsibility in this present age. We must seek God for wisdom to communicate reasonably and with all humility. It is on this point that church institutions have consistently failed.
No matter what we do, “truth” is being declared and determined in the market place, on social media, in schools, through governments, and on TV. If our voices are not present, or if we are speaking a worldly version of truth, then the pressure to conform to the darkness is great indeed. Historically, appeals for reason, courage, and dignity have come from Jesus-followers. If you have not been taught how to engage the world in intelligent, respectful discussions about the issues of the day, you should find some new mentors. No Christian is exempt from the YOU in “You are the light of the world.” We must all learn to communicate truth in ways that will impact society. Learn to ask honest questions and challenge others to be honest in their questions as well. Rather than debate, we need to dialogue with gentleness and humility. If others are demeaning and hot tempered, stay calm in the peace of Christ and speak truth in love. We can’t expect to have all of the answers, but we can expect to receive wisdom if we ask. Let’s get back to basics, know what we believe and why, then live and speak those beliefs before the world through the humility and confidence of Christ.