John 1:9
“That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”
King James Version (KJV)
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This verse comes after John's introduction of John the Baptist as a witness to the light. It distinguishes Christ, the true Light, from the witness who pointed to him.
What Does John 1:9 Mean?
John 1:9 identifies the Word as the true Light who gives light to every person coming into the world. John has just spoken of John the Baptist, who was a witness to the light but was not the light himself (1:6-8). Now he draws the contrast sharply: there is only one true Light, and it is Christ.
The word "true" here means genuine, the real thing as opposed to every copy, shadow, or substitute. Many lamps shine in the world -- teachers, traditions, and inner convictions -- but they borrow whatever light they have. Christ is the source. The reach of this light is breathtakingly wide: it "lighteth every man that cometh into the world." No one is born beyond its reach. Every human being is touched by this light, given some measure of awareness of God, conscience, and truth that points toward its source. This universal illumination does not force anyone, but it leaves no one in total darkness without a witness. The same Word who made all people also extends light to all people, so that the invitation of the Gospel is genuinely for everyone who will turn toward the light.
In the Original Language
The Greek "alethinon" (true) means genuine or real, as opposed to a counterfeit or shadow. "Photizei" (lighteth) means to give light to or to illuminate, here extended to every person.
Cross References
“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
- John 8:12
“I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.”
- Isaiah 49:6
“A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.”
- Luke 2:32
Application
Every person you meet has been touched by the true Light. Trust that Christ is already at work in hearts, and let your life point others toward the genuine source of light.