Leviticus 2:13

Read Leviticus 2:13

Helpful Background Information:  

• Mark 9:49 is one of the strangest verses in the New Testament, and much debate surrounds its meaning. However, to help us understand the words of our Lord, we must understand that Jesus is actually quoting the Old Testament - Leviticus 2:13 

• Leviticus 2 describes the grain offering, one of Israel’s primary sacrifices. Though its exact purpose is uncertain, it likely served as a memorial prompting God’s blessing and, unlike blood sacrifices, did not require a priest or temple. This “most holy” offering always included “the covenant of salt,” symbolizing the enduring and binding nature of Israel’s covenant with God. Likewise, Israelite burnt offerings were required to be fully consumed by fire to be acceptable. 

• Hence, in Mark 9:49, fire and salt symbolize the trials and costs of following Jesus, showing that true discipleship demands complete commitment. Though these trials can be painful, they do not destroy believers; instead, they refine them, making their lives holy and pleasing to God, like a living sacrifice. This helps explain the phrase “salted with fire,” which means that suffering for Christ is not meaningless but is itself an offering to God. As believers willingly endure hardship in following Jesus, they reflect his own suffering and become a source of hope, light, and faithfulness to the world.

Reflection Questions: 

• Both fire and salt point to sacrifices that were fully given to God. What might “complete commitment” to Christ look like in your life right now?

• If suffering for Christ can be an offering pleasing to God, how does that reshape the way you view discomfort, loss, or endurance in your faith?

• How might God use your perseverance through trials to bring hope, light, or faithfulness to others this week?