‘Fit For Purpose (3) – Saltiness’: A Sermon by Pastor Mensa Otabil

Introduction

In his sermon titled “Fit for Purpose – Part 3 (Saltiness)” at ICGC Christ Temple East, Pastor Mensa Otabil masterfully unpacked the metaphor of salt as used by Jesus in Matthew 5:13. 

This powerful teaching centered on what it means for believers to be “the salt of the earth” and how this analogy aligns with living a purpose-filled Christian life.

Understanding Saltiness Through Scripture

Pastor Otabil began by providing context for Matthew 5:13, emphasizing that Jesus used metaphors during the Sermon on the Mount to illustrate the role and character of His followers. 

In this instance, He said: “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.”

To fully grasp Jesus’ meaning, Pastor Otabil urged the congregation to consider the historical uses of salt in biblical times. He highlighted three key functions of salt: as a preservative, a seasoning agent, and a fertilizer. 

While salt was crucial for food preservation and enhancing flavor, Pastor Otabil leaned towards its role as a fertilizer—restoring productivity to barren land—as the central analogy Jesus might have intended. 

Nevertheless, all three applications remain valid in understanding the believer’s role in the world.  

Saltiness and Distinctiveness

The sermon emphasized that salt’s effectiveness lies in its distinctiveness, a quality believers must mirror. 

Pastor Otabil explained, “Salt is always distinct. Although it is used in things, it doesn’t lose its nature when it is used.” 

In this light, Christians are called to live lives that stand apart from worldly standards while influencing those around them positively.  

Being “salt of the earth” also underscores uniqueness. He passionately declared, “You are distinct. In a world of nearly eight billion people, there is no one exactly like you, and there will never be anyone like you. When you lose your distinctiveness, you lose your saltiness.” 

This distinctiveness, however, is not an excuse for isolation or narcissism. Instead, Pastor Otabil stressed the importance of collaboration among equally unique individuals, saying, *“Distinct people must work together.”*  

Participating in the World

Salt’s value is realized when it engages with the world—preserving, enhancing, and fertilizing. 

Pastor Otabil highlighted the futility of salt remaining in isolation, reminding the congregation that, “Salt must participate in what happens in the world. It cannot dwell by itself and have any impact.” 

Similarly, Christians are called to actively participate in society while upholding their God-given uniqueness and purpose.

Conclusion

Pastor Mensa Otabil’s sermon on “Saltiness” serves as a profound reminder of the believer’s role in the world. 

By being distinct yet collaborative, Christians can influence their surroundings, prevent moral decay, enhance the lives of others, and promote growth and productivity wherever they are placed.  

Ultimately, salt is “fit for purpose” when it fulfills its intended role. Likewise, as Pastor Otabil put it, “When we lose our saltiness, we lose our relevance.”

Believers must strive to preserve their distinctiveness while actively engaging with the world, embodying their God-ordained purpose.