I am a Jesus pusher!!! Jesus distinctly states the “Function of the Kingdom of Heaven” through the imagery of “salt” and “light” (Matthew 5:13-16). There is a distinction in the three verses focused on “light.” OUR POSITION (Matthew 5:14) is a definite statement about our existence or essence, not an instruction of how to be light; it is a recognition of who we are! When my helplessness is filled and sourced by Jesus, the Kingdom of Heaven is formed. In this sense, I do not master the Kingdom; it masters me! Then Jesus proposes OUR PURPOSE (Matthew 5:15). The influence of “light” is best-described as invisibility. There are two aspects of visibility indicated in this section. The Kingdom of Heaven, my helplessness filled with His Person, is seen. It is parallel to “A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” However, this visibility produces persecution where the light exposes and pressures what is going on around it. When persecution results, it only heightens and increases the opportunity for the light! Our response is to “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad” (Matthew 5:12).
Step by step, Jesus brings us to a firm conclusion. If this final statement about “light” is ignored, all is lost. It is not just lost but becomes damaging. It is a statement about OUR PRESENTATION (Matthew 5:16). The focus of our visibility is on Him. What we are as light is to be visible “that (purpose) they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our self-sourcing naturally demonstrates and glorifies self. We present ourselves in the best light; we promote ourselves. It is only helpless people filled with the Father whom God continuously uses to glorify the Father. Any exalting of self nullifies the glory of the Father. It is in God’s call to continually recognize “our position” that “our presentation” would shine bright, fulfilling “our purpose.” I am a Jesus pusher!!!