John 1:9

Berean Standard Bible
The true Light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
 
King James Bible
That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
 
NET Bible
The true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
 
Greek Text:
Ἦν τὸ φῶς τὸ ἀληθινὸν ὃ φωτίζει πάντα ἄνθρωπον ἐρχόμενον εἰς τὸν κόσμον.
 
Transliteration:
Ēn to phōs to alēthinon ho phōtizei panta anthrōpon erchomenon eis ton kosmon.
 
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Study Bible:
 
The true Light
The phrase "The true Light" refers to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate source of spiritual illumination and truth. In the Greek, the word for "true" is "alēthinos," which means genuine or real, emphasizing the authenticity and purity of Christ's light compared to any other. Historically, light has been a powerful symbol in both Jewish and Greco-Roman cultures, representing knowledge, purity, and divine presence. In the Old Testament, light is often associated with God's presence and guidance (e.g., Psalm 27:1, "The LORD is my light and my salvation"). Here, John identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of these Old Testament themes, the embodiment of divine truth and revelation.
 
that gives light
The Greek word for "gives light" is "phōtizei," which means to illuminate or enlighten. This suggests an active, ongoing process of revelation and understanding. Jesus, as the true Light, actively dispels darkness and ignorance, offering clarity and wisdom to those who seek Him. This aligns with the biblical theme of God as the source of wisdom and understanding, as seen in Proverbs 2:6, "For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding."
 
to every man
The phrase "to every man" underscores the universality of Christ's offer of salvation and enlightenment. The Greek word "anthrōpon" is used here, which is a generic term for humanity, indicating that the light of Christ is available to all people, regardless of race, gender, or social status. This reflects the inclusive nature of the Gospel message, as seen in passages like Galatians 3:28, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
 
was coming into the world
The phrase "was coming into the world" speaks to the incarnation of Christ, the moment when the divine Word became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). The Greek verb "erchomenon" indicates an action that was in progress, highlighting the anticipation and fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus. This event is central to Christian theology, as it marks the moment when God entered human history in a tangible way, bridging the gap between the divine and the human. The world, in this context, refers to the created order, which, according to Genesis, was originally good but has been marred by sin. Christ's coming into the world signifies the beginning of the restoration and redemption of all creation.
 
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Commentary:
 
The True Light:
 
This refers to Jesus Christ, often described in Christian theology as the "Light of the World." The term "true light" underscores the authenticity and divine origin of Jesus' light, distinguishing it from any other form of enlightenment or wisdom that might be found in the world.
 
Which Gives Light to Everyone:
 
This part of the verse suggests that the light of Christ is universally available to all humanity. It implies an inclusive offer of salvation, knowledge, and guidance that transcends cultural, racial, or national boundaries. This universal aspect is a key theme in John's Gospel, emphasizing that Jesus came for all people, not just for a select few.
 
Was Coming into the World:
 
This phrase echoes the incarnation, the Christian belief that God became man in the person of Jesus Christ. It speaks to the moment of Jesus' arrival on earth, marking the beginning of his ministry and presence among humans. The use of "was coming" in some translations might also suggest an ongoing process or the continuous nature of Jesus' light shining in the world.
 
In theological terms:
 
Christological Implications: This verse is pivotal in establishing the identity of Jesus as both divine (the true light) and human (coming into the world). It's a cornerstone for Christology, the study of the nature and work of Christ.
 
Soteriological Implications: The verse also has implications for soteriology, the doctrine of salvation. Here, salvation is portrayed not just as rescue from sin, but as enlightenment or illumination, bringing understanding, truth, and life to all who accept this light.
 
Missiological Implications: From a missiological perspective, this verse underpins the Christian mission to spread the Gospel to all corners of the earth, reflecting the universal call to salvation and enlightenment offered by Jesus.
 
In summary, John 1:9 is a profound statement about the nature of Jesus' mission, his universal accessibility, and the transformative power of his presence in the world. It sets the stage for the rest of John's Gospel, where Jesus' life, teachings, death, and resurrection are explored as the manifestation of this light.