John 1:9

[That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

That was {G2258} the true {G228} Light {G5457}, which {G3739} lighteth {G5461} every man {G3956}{G444} that cometh {G2064} into {G1519} the world {G2889}.

This was the true light,
which gives light to everyone entering the world.

The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world.

There was the true light, even the light which lighteth every man, coming into the world.

Commentary

John 1:9 is a pivotal verse within the profound prologue of John's Gospel, introducing Jesus Christ as the ultimate source of spiritual illumination for all humanity.

Context

This verse is part of the opening theological statement of John's Gospel (John 1:1-18), often referred to as the "Prologue." Here, John systematically introduces the pre-existent Word (Logos), identifying Him as God and the agent of creation. The themes of life, light, and darkness are woven throughout, setting the stage for understanding Jesus' identity and mission. Within this context, John the Baptist is presented as a witness to this Light, but not the Light itself, contrasting his role with that of Christ.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The True Light: The phrase "That was the true Light" emphasizes Jesus' authenticity and divine origin. Unlike any lesser or false lights, He is the genuine, ultimate source of spiritual revelation and truth. This sets Him apart from human wisdom, philosophical ideas, or even the Mosaic Law, which, while divine, pointed to Him.
  • Universal Illumination: The declaration that this Light "lighteth every man that cometh into the world" speaks to the universal reach of Christ's influence. This does not necessarily mean universal salvation, but rather that every individual receives some form of divine illumination—whether through conscience, the natural world, or a general awareness of God's existence. It suggests that no one is left entirely in spiritual darkness without any opportunity to perceive truth. This concept aligns with the idea of general revelation, where God's invisible attributes are clearly seen.
  • Divine Revelation and Understanding: The Light of Christ reveals God's nature, truth, and the path to salvation. It cuts through the darkness of sin and ignorance, offering spiritual understanding and moral clarity.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "true" here is alēthinon (ἀληθινόν), which denotes something genuine, authentic, and real, as opposed to merely symbolic or counterfeit. Thus, Jesus is not just a light, but the definitive and authentic source of light. The verb "lighteth" (phōtizei - φωτίζει) signifies an active process of illuminating, enlightening, or bringing to light, underscoring the dynamic nature of Christ's influence on humanity.

Related Scriptures

  • This concept is echoed when Jesus later declares, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life."
  • The contrast with darkness is prominent throughout the prologue, as seen in John 1:5, where "the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not."
  • Old Testament prophecies also speak of the Messiah as a light, such as Isaiah 49:6, which foretells Him being "a light to the Gentiles."

Practical Application

John 1:9 invites us to recognize Jesus as the ultimate source of truth, wisdom, and moral guidance. For those who acknowledge Him, it is a call to walk in His light, living lives that reflect His truth and righteousness. For those who may not yet know Him, it affirms that God's light has already touched their lives in some measure, providing a foundation upon which the full revelation of the Gospel can build. It highlights God's pervasive grace and His desire for all humanity to come to spiritual understanding and salvation.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • John 12:46

    I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.

  • 1 John 2:8

    Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.

  • John 1:4

    In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

  • Isaiah 49:6

    And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.

  • John 1:7

    The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all [men] through him might believe.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:4

    But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:7

    For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.
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