I am a Jesus pusher!!! Consider this statement, “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13). The Greek word “ge,” translated “earth,” means the solid part of the whole of the terrene globe including the occupants. In the context of our passage, it refers to a location where the Kingdom is lived; it takes place on earth, which refers chiefly to humans. This is a broad view! Jesus continued, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). The Greek word “kosmos,” translated “world,” is tied to the concept of the universe. The heart of the word describes an order or arrangement. Thus, it came to mean an order or standard by which things of the world are held together. In other words, the interaction of the human race is the platform for the manifestation of the light. This is highlighted further by the imagery of “a city set on a hill,” a light placed “on a lamp stand,” and “before men.”
As one saturates in these four verses, it becomes evident the main function of this Kingdom relationship is “influence.” Jesus points to the superior impact this Kingdom relationship will have on the world population. But it is not so broad that you and I are not intricately included; we play a key role. This is not accomplished by masses, but by individuals. Notice “salt” and “light” are both singular. The imagery of “light a lamp and put it under a basket” is singular. Jesus instructs us to “Let your light so shine before men.” This points to the individual. These four verses call us as individuals to allow the Kingdom (merger with Jesus) to influence our world. I am a Jesus pusher!!!