John 1:9

What does John 1:9 mean?

In the opening of his Gospel, John contrasts John the Baptist, who “was not that Light” (verse 8), with Jesus, “the true Light”. Jesus is the real source of the light the Baptist pointed to, the Light for every person. The next verses note the sad irony that the world he made “knew him not”.

How can I apply John 1:9 today?

John the Baptist's role is a model: point to the Light rather than to yourself. When you help someone or share what you believe this week, give the credit to Jesus. And when life feels dark, read a chapter of John's Gospel each day and let his words light your next step.

In context · John 1:7–11

The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

Topics

Hope · Faith