[UntoHim]

Originally Posted by Igzy

But here's my basic thought: The LCM's view of the Church as the testimony of Jesus is warped. To them, the Church just "shines" with "the glory of God," but has no effect on the world. That's pretty impotent shining! But we are to be salt and light to the world, and salt and light are supposed to have an effect of changing things.

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet."

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house."
Matthew 5:13-15

I think many of us have a tendency to remember the first part of the verses - "You are the salt of the earth" and "You are the light of the world" - and conveniently forget about a very important part - "no longer good for anything" and "put it under a basket".

"No longer good for anything" indicates loss of original or intended function. "Put it under a basket" is just flat out, purposefully ignoring the function. As Igzy has pointed out, Christian service to our neighbors and others is an essential element of the Christian life. Lots of practical applications have already been brought forth and I heartily agree with them all.
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