I am a Jesus pusher!!! The focus of our passage is the “effects” of the state of being (Matthew 5:13-16). Jesus demonstrated the state of being through the imagery of salt and light. The “effects” are always about others. “Salt” does not exist for itself nor does “light” shine for its own benefit. The intent of its being is others. Jesus asks us to consider this statement: “You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men” (Matthew 5:13).
The negative of salt is to lose its flavor. If this happens, how can it preserve anything? The influence of salt is lost! Salt has no benefit but to that which it preserves. “You are the light of the world.” Obviously, the light is not the light of the light. Its effect is to the world. “It gives light to all who are in the house.” “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” This should not be difficult to understand. The life of Jesus is a pure demonstration of such. His heart is a redemptive heart! Now the same Spirit that filled Him and caused His state of existence has come to fill us. Let us be salt and light! I want to be one with Him. The nature of God indwelling, and sourcing Jesus must be merged with me. I want the fullness of Jesus. I am a Jesus pusher!!!