In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. The purpose of the shining light is not the disciples' reputation but the Father's glory. Good works are the visible expression of the kingdom's presence — not performed for visibility but inevitably visible, and when seen, pointing past the disciples to the one who makes such works possible. 1 Peter 2:12 makes the same argument: keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. The world's recognition of the disciples' good works redirected to the Father's glory is the missionary purpose of the Beatitudes and the metaphors of salt and light.

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