Salty Peace

In the context of His strange instruction to have “salt in[themselves],” Jesus warned His listeners of sins that cause division and harm. “If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off ” (v. 43). Interpreters recognize that Jesus was speaking metaphorically (people should not literally maim themselves), but He was speaking seriously. A fractured, divided church will fail in its mission. Believers must think of themselves as sacrifices offered to God (see Paul’s similar comment in Rom. 12:1–2). Recall that Jesus commanded His followers to be the “salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13). So here in Mark, Jesus urged His followers to be well salted— meaning to promote unity and to “have peace with one another” (Mark 9:50).

“Salty” believers will be able to form a community of peace- filled fellowship. How are you already well salted? Where do you need more seasoning? As Christians we should mark those who cause divisions in the church and avoid them. Sometimes our peace is stolen because we are in proximity with people who are not committed to God’s peace. It can be difficult at first, but focus on friends who seek peace if you want it yourself.