John 1:4
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In him was life - Many MSS., versions, and fathers, connect this with the preceding verse, thus: All things were made by him, and without him was nothing made. What was made had life in it; but This Life was the light of men. That is, though every thing he made had a principle of life in it, whether vegetable, animal, or intellectual, yet this, that life or animal principle in the human being, was not the light of men; not that light which could guide them to heaven, for the world by wisdom knew not God, Co1 1:21. Therefore, the expression, in him was life, is not to be understood of life natural, but of that life eternal which he revealed to the world, Ti2 1:10, to which he taught the way, Joh 14:6, which he promised to believers, Joh 10:28, which he purchased for them, Joh 6:51, Joh 6:53, Joh 6:54, which he is appointed to give them, Joh 17:2, and to which he will raise them up, Joh 5:29, because he hath the life in himself, Joh 5:26. All this may be proved: 1. From the like expressions; Jo1 5:11, This is the promise that God hath given unto us, eternal life, and this life is in his Son: whence he is styled the true God and eternal life, Jo1 5:20; the resurrection and the life, Joh 11:25; the way, the truth, and the life, Joh 14:6. 2. From these words, Joh 1:7, John came to bear witness of this light, that all might believe through him, viz. to eternal life, Ti1 1:16; for so John witnesseth, Joh 3:15, Joh 3:36. And hence it follows that this life must be the light of men, by giving them the knowledge of this life, and of the way leading to it. See Whitby on the place. Is there any reference here to Gen 3:20 : And Adam called his wife's name Eve, חוה chava, Ζωη, Life, because she was the mother of all living? And was not Jesus that seed of the woman that was to bruise the head of the serpent, and to give life to the world?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In Him was life--essentially and originally, as the previous verses show to be the meaning. Thus He is the Living Word, or, as He is called in Jo1 1:1-2, "the Word of Life." the life . . . the light of men--All that in men which is true light--knowledge, integrity, intelligent, willing subjection to God, love to Him and to their fellow creatures, wisdom, purity, holy joy, rational happiness--all this "light of men" has its fountain in the essential original "life" of "the Word" (Jo1 1:5-7; Psa 36:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
In him was life,.... The Persic version reads in the plural number, "lives". There was life in the word with respect to himself; a divine life, the same with the life of the Father and of the Spirit; and is in him, not by gift, nor by derivation or communication; but originally, and independently, and from all eternity: indeed he lived before his incarnation as Mediator, and Redeemer. Job knew him in his time, as his living Redeemer; but this regards him as the word and living God, and distinguishes him from the written word, and shows that he is not a mere idea in the divine mind, but a truly divine person: and there was life in Christ the word, with respect to others; the fountain of natural life is in him, he is the efficient cause, and preserver of it; whether vegetative, animal, or rational; and proves him to be truly God, and that he existed before his incarnation; since creatures, who have received such a life from him, did: and spiritual life was also in him; all his elect are dead in trespasses and sins, and cannot quicken themselves. Christ has procured life for them, and gives it to them, and implants it in them; a life of sanctification is from him; and a life of justification is upon him, and of faith is by him; all the comforts of a spiritual life, and all things appertaining to it, are from him, and he maintains, and preserves it. Eternal life is in him, and with him; not the purpose of it only, nor the promise of it barely, but the gift of it itself; which was granted in consequence of his asking it, and which he had by way of stipulation; and hence has a right and power to bestow it: now, this being in him proves him to be the true God, and shows us where life is to be had, and the safety and security of it: and the life was the light of men; the life which was in, and by the word, was, with respect to men, a life of light, or a life attended with light: by which is meant, not a mere visive faculty, receptive of the sun's light, but rational knowledge and understanding; for when Christ, the word, breathed into man the breath of life, and he became a living soul, he filled him with rational light and knowledge. Adam had a knowledge of God; of his being, and perfections; of the persons in the Trinity; of his relation to God, dependence on him, and obligation to him; of his mind and will; and knew what it was to have communion with him. He knew much of himself, and of all the creatures; this knowledge was natural and perfect in its kind, but loseable; and different from that which saints now have of God, through Christ, the Mediator; and since this natural light was from Christ, the word, as a Creator, he must be the eternal God. The Socinians are not willing to allow this sense, but say that Christ is the light of men, by preaching the heavenly doctrine, and by the example of his holy life; but hereby he did not enlighten every man that cometh into the world; the greatest part of men, before the preaching, and example of Christ, sat in darkness; and the greatest part of the Jews remained in darkness, notwithstanding his preaching, and example; and the patriarchs that were enlightened under the former dispensation, were not enlightened this way: it will be owned, that all spiritual and supernatural light, which any of the sons of men have had, since the fall, was from Christ, from whom they had their spiritual life; even all spiritual light in conversion, and all after degrees of light; through him they enjoyed the light of God's countenance, and had the light of joy and gladness here, and of glory hereafter.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:4-5 God created light and dispelled the darkness (Gen 1:2-5). The darkness resists God (John 3:19-21; 12:35; Matt 6:23; Acts 26:17-18; Eph 4:17-19; 5:7-14; 2 Pet 1:19; 1 Jn 1:5-7; 2:9-11). 1:4 The Word gave life: Life was God’s original gift to his creatures (Gen 1:20-28; 2:7). Now the logos would give these creatures the possibility of new life through rebirth (John 1:13). • As one of his first creative acts, God brought light (Gen 1:3). Now, in the re-creation of humanity through Jesus Christ, God offered light and life anew. Light is a key theme in John’s Gospel.
John 1:4
The Beginning
3Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made.4In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Real Jesus) 1 Jesus Did Not Seek His Own
By Zac Poonen4.5K1:01:05PSA 119:105MAT 6:33JHN 1:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the responsibility of Christians to go out into the world, just as Jesus was sent by the Father. The speaker refers to the words of Jesus after his resurrection, where he tells his disciples that they are being sent out into the world. The speaker then discusses the importance of understanding why the Father sent Jesus, pointing to a verse in John's Gospel that highlights the purpose of Jesus' mission. The speaker also warns against following false teachings and emphasizes the need for a genuine transformation in the lives of believers.
John's Ministry of Recovery
By Stephen Kaung2.9K59:01Life in ChristRecoveryJHN 1:4JHN 3:16JHN 10:10JHN 11:25JHN 14:6JHN 20:311JN 1:11JN 4:91JN 5:13REV 1:17Stephen Kaung emphasizes the significance of John's ministry as a ministry of recovery, focusing on the themes of life and light found in Christ. He explains that John's approach leads believers back to the beginning, where true life is found in Jesus, the Word made flesh. Kaung illustrates how John's ministry addresses the spiritual decline by restoring the testimony of Jesus through life, love, and light, urging the congregation to seek life in Christ above all else. He encourages believers to ask whether their actions and beliefs align with the life of Christ, as true recovery comes from returning to Him. Ultimately, Kaung reassures that life triumphs over death, as demonstrated in the book of Revelation.
The Spirit and the Cross
By Zac Poonen1.9K56:58CrossGEN 2:1PSA 119:105PSA 119:130MAT 6:33JHN 1:4HEB 4:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of detachment from the attractions of the world and the importance of realizing that this world is not our permanent home. He uses the analogy of traveling in a train to emphasize that we should not invest all our resources and efforts in worldly pursuits. The preacher also highlights the danger of becoming worldly and losing the glory of God in our lives. He contrasts the Old Testament life, characterized by ups and downs, with the New Testament life, which is described as a shining light that grows brighter and brighter. The sermon also touches on the significance of sin entering the world in Genesis 3 and how it changed the nature of the earth.
Issue of Life - What Is Life?
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:07:09LifeJHN 1:4ROM 8:22CO 3:172CO 7:1GAL 6:171JN 2:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the unchanging nature of laws, using the example of gravity. He explains that the law of sin and death operates because humans live in the flesh, not recognizing that even the good in the flesh is still under this law. The speaker highlights the need for deliverance from this bondage, which can only be found through Jesus Christ. The sermon also discusses the working of the law of the spirit of life, which brings separation from worldly things and brings light and revelation to expose and judge everything.
(Youth Conference 2006) Questions and Answers
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:07:14PSA 103:3PSA 119:105MAT 22:36JHN 1:4GAL 2:20EPH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of avoiding movies with explicit content, as even a few seconds of inappropriate scenes can stick in our minds. He highlights the need to evaluate the entertainment value of movies and the impact they have on our thoughts and desires. The speaker also encourages believers to seek the filling of the Holy Spirit as a major need in their lives, comparing it to the dedication people show when seeking important things like admission or visas. Additionally, he addresses the question of why some babies are born with physical or mental disabilities, acknowledging that there are certain things he doesn't have the full answer to, but affirming that God is good and the world is under a curse. The sermon concludes with the exhortation to never give up in seeking victory over sin, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and serving God faithfully.
Freedom From Witchcraft and Unclean Spirits
By Emanuel Esh1.2K50:41WitchcraftISA 58:10MAT 6:23JHN 1:4ACT 26:18ROM 13:121CO 4:51PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the book of John and focuses on the theme of light and darkness. He emphasizes that darkness is afraid of light and that the only thing that can overcome darkness is light. The preacher shares a personal childhood memory of visiting his great-grandparents and highlights the importance of repentance and allowing the light of Christ to expose and drive away darkness in our lives. He also references the resurrection of Jesus and how it overcame sin, death, and hell, shining the eternal light and glory into the hearts of believers. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the specific assignment given to believers to open the eyes of others, turn them from darkness to light, and preach the light of Christ.
Manifesting the Life of Jesus (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:08:16GEN 1:2EXO 34:29PRO 4:18PRO 28:13MAT 7:7LUK 10:42JHN 1:42CO 3:18HEB 8:10JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the transition from the old covenant to the new covenant, highlighting the need for honesty and true transformation through the Holy Spirit. It discusses the importance of living a life that reflects the light of Jesus, growing in purity, humility, and love. The speaker urges listeners to seek genuine repentance, embrace the new covenant where glory increases, and strive to be a light in the world like Jesus.
The Fellowship With Jesus Christ, Part 2: Governing Principles
By Stephen Kaung1.0K59:23PSA 119:105MAT 6:33JHN 1:4PHP 2:11JN 1:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of true fellowship among believers. He explains that while it is necessary to break the ice and have introductions when coming together, the focus should ultimately be on sharing Christ and increasing in knowledge of Him. The speaker highlights that as believers grow in their relationship with God, they have more to share with one another, such as the knowledge of the Father and the forgiveness of sins. He also emphasizes the need to walk in the light and practice the truth, as this leads to fellowship with one another and the cleansing of sins through the blood of Jesus Christ. The sermon references verses from 1st John and encourages believers to have the mind of Christ.
09 New Wine in New Wineskins God Will Exalt Us in His Time
By Zac Poonen97359:46PRO 16:7MAT 5:44JHN 1:42TI 2:2HEB 10:34This sermon emphasizes the importance of passing on the teachings of faith from one generation to the next, focusing on the need for godly leaders to entrust their knowledge to faithful individuals who will continue the legacy. It highlights the significance of forgiveness, loving one's enemies, and seeking peace as essential aspects of living a Christ-like life. The speaker shares personal testimonies of overcoming challenges through forgiveness and trusting in God's grace to rule over sin and Satan.
Walking Daily in the Light of God's Eternal Purpose
By Stephen Kaung9541:19:55ISA 50:11JHN 1:4ROM 6:4EPH 2:41JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having life in order to walk in the ways of God. He explains that if we only have the natural, fallen life inherited from Adam, our walk will be influenced by our own desires and conscience. However, if we have received the new life in Christ, we can walk according to the light of His life within us. The speaker also discusses the eternal purpose of God and how it applies to believers, highlighting the need for daily walking in the light of this purpose. He encourages listeners to embrace the newness of life in Christ and to continually walk with the Lord, even through times of crisis and decision-making.
'We Know'
By Meirion Thomas9391:15:56MAT 6:33JHN 1:4JHN 4:14JHN 6:35JHN 6:63JHN 8:32ROM 10:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the darkness and emptiness of the world and the need for salvation. He shares a story about beach missioners who speak to children about Gospel truths while their fathers are engaged in other activities. The preacher highlights the importance of hearing the voice of Jesus and understanding his identity. He also mentions the missionary exhibition as an example of the impact of the word of God in modern situations. The content of the word of God is described as giving dignity, identity, and responsibility to humanity, even in their fallen state. The preacher emphasizes the theme of discovery and the search for truth and meaning in John's Gospel. The sermon concludes by highlighting the ultimate giving of God in sending his only begotten son.
Light, Life, and Love - Part 1
By Roy Hession84348:56LoveJHN 1:4JHN 13:231JN 1:51JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses three main themes: life, light, and love. He emphasizes that these three things have come into the world through Jesus Christ. Without Jesus, the world is dead and in darkness. The preacher also highlights the importance of walking in the light and confessing our sins, as this leads to fellowship with God and forgiveness through the blood of Jesus. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that these themes of life, light, and love are all manifestations of Jesus, whom John loves and worships.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Christian Armament 02 Armed With an Advocate
By Neil Fraser79348:23PSA 78:9MAT 6:33JHN 1:4JHN 2:1PHP 4:19HEB 2:18In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about an old lady who was sick and asked God for an orange. When she woke up, she found two oranges, which the preacher reveals he had given to her. The preacher then transitions to discussing the concept of predestination and God's plan for believers. He explains that God's purpose is for those He foreknew to be conformed to the image of His Son, and that through divine calling and justification, believers are already on the path to being glorified. The preacher encourages the audience to remember that all things work together for good for those who love God.
Honouring Our Heavenly Father
By Brian Long7211:01:52HonouringJHN 1:4JHN 8:12JHN 17:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of bringing joy to God by walking in truth. He highlights the audience of one, God the Father, as the ultimate focus of preaching. The message centers around the question of what one will do with the truth. The preacher references John chapter eight, where Jesus declares himself as the light of the world and urges listeners to come into the light and receive the truth. The sermon also emphasizes the need to seek and meditate on God's Word in order to experience true freedom.
The Sun Is Setting - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan56813:31FellowshipMAT 6:33LUK 10:41JHN 1:4JHN 13:35In this sermon, K.P. Johanin discusses the importance of knowing and trusting God in our lives. He emphasizes that our journey with the Lord is not about self-centered greed or worldly achievements, but about understanding the ways of God. Johanin encourages listeners to prioritize their relationship with God, especially in these last days before Jesus' return. He also highlights the need for Bible teaching and the challenges faced by young people in staying connected to the church.
Living as Jesus Did
By K.P. Yohannan47638:37JesusPSA 119:105MAT 5:14MAT 6:33MAT 25:35JHN 1:42CO 4:71JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to the needs and opportunities around us. He contrasts a pragmatic mindset that relies on resources and human effort with the example of Jesus, who spent time in prayer and sought the Father's guidance. The speaker urges listeners to live their lives in light of eternity and to prioritize their relationship with God through fasting, prayer, contemplation, and meditation. He also highlights the issue of child labor in India and calls for a response to the suffering in the world.
The Life in You
By G.W. North1851:37:54LifePSA 127:2MAT 5:14JHN 1:4JHN 4:14JHN 8:12JHN 14:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the Gospel of John and takes his time to explore its truths. He starts by referencing the story of Jesus speaking to the woman at the well in John 4. He emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus in this world, as it is through knowing Him that others will recognize that we are sent by God. The preacher also highlights the necessity of believing and following Jesus' teachings in order to avoid eternal damnation. He concludes by emphasizing that as believers, we are meant to be fountains and rivers of eternal life, as God has placed something deep within us through the new birth.
Gospel of John (2nd Yr Study 6 of 19, Chap 11 Cont)
By G.W. North11751:50Christian LifeJHN 1:4JHN 6:35JHN 8:1JHN 10:7JHN 10:40JHN 11:25JHN 11:43In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the climactic statement made by Jesus in John 11:25, where he declares, "I am the resurrection and the life." The preacher highlights the significance of this statement by connecting it to the story of Lazarus being raised from the dead. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus not only brings physical life to Lazarus but also imparts new human life to him. The sermon also mentions how Jesus went back to the place where John first baptized, emphasizing the importance of John's role in preparing the way for Jesus.
Gospel of John (Study 17 of 24, Chap 8 Start)
By G.W. North11154:54Christian LifeMAT 6:33JHN 1:4JHN 7:53JHN 8:2JHN 8:12JHN 8:18JHN 14:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being born again and having a deep understanding of God's blessings and truths. He discusses different ways of interpreting the Bible, including the microscopic, telescopic, and panoramic methods. The speaker highlights the significance of seeing things with the light of Jesus and being saved from living in darkness. He also mentions the miracles in John's gospel and the importance of knowing the truth to experience freedom. The sermon touches on the concept of the Trinity and the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Steps to Joy (Audio Poor)
By Paris Reidhead10741:15JoyPSA 16:11MAT 6:33LUK 2:10JHN 1:4ROM 15:13HEB 4:151JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of joy and its connection to the message of the angel's song in Bethlehem. The preacher challenges the misconception that religion is meant to make people miserable and unhappy. Instead, the preacher emphasizes that God's desire is for people to experience fullness of joy. The sermon highlights the importance of living out one's faith in all aspects of life and reminds listeners that true joy can only be found in being free from sin and being right with God.
The Scarlet Thread of Redemption
By Major Ian Thomas1040:18Dependence on ChristRedemptionLEV 17:11JHN 1:4ROM 5:10ROM 11:361CO 5:72CO 5:14GAL 2:20PHP 1:11COL 1:27HEB 9:22Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the concept of redemption through the metaphor of a lamp, illustrating that while we are created with a body and soul, we cannot produce righteousness on our own. He explains that true functionality comes from receiving the life of Christ within us, which enables us to shine with His light. Thomas highlights the importance of both the death and life of Christ, stating that while His death reconciles us, it is His life that saves us and empowers us to live righteously. He warns against the danger of being a 'carnal Christian,' relying on our own efforts rather than allowing Christ to live through us. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the necessity of repentance and dependence on Christ for true sanctification and functionality in our Christian walk.
Studies in Esther - Part 3
By Major Ian Thomas523:38Divine Law vs. Human LawThe Role of the Holy SpiritGEN 41:40EST 3:8PRO 20:27ISA 26:3MAT 11:28JHN 1:4ACT 16:19ROM 3:1ROM 8:14GAL 4:4Major Ian Thomas explores the narrative of Esther, focusing on Haman's plot against the Jews and the significance of divine law versus human law. He emphasizes how Haman's rejection of the Jewish people and their divine law mirrors the struggle between the flesh and the spirit in humanity. Thomas draws parallels between Mordecai's role as a figure of the Holy Spirit and the need for divine intervention in the face of evil. He highlights the importance of adoption into God's family through the Holy Spirit, which allows believers to access the divine authority and peace that comes from Christ. Ultimately, the sermon illustrates the conflict between righteousness and wickedness, urging believers to seek the Christ rule in their lives.
Epistle 345
By George Fox0Suffering For ChristFaith and PerseveranceMAT 5:10LUK 23:34JHN 1:4ROM 5:2GAL 5:25GAL 6:8EPH 4:3PHP 1:29HEB 12:11JN 5:4George Fox encourages believers to endure suffering with patience and faith, reminding them that their trials are a part of their journey in Christ, who overcame the world. He emphasizes the importance of submitting one's will to God and living in the Spirit, which leads to eternal life and unity among believers. Fox highlights that true suffering for Christ is marked by love and charity, urging his listeners to pray for their persecutors and embody the mind of Christ, who forgave even in the face of suffering. He reassures them that their sufferings will ultimately serve a greater purpose in establishing them on the rock of life.
What Salvation Is
By Andrew Murray0True Nature of SalvationPersonal Relationship with ChristJHN 1:4JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 10:92CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:8PHP 1:21COL 3:41JN 5:11Andrew Murray emphasizes that true salvation is not merely about believing in Christ's works or following His commands, but rather about establishing a personal relationship with Him. He asserts that salvation is fundamentally about receiving Christ Himself as our life, highlighting that eternal life is found in Him alone. Murray clarifies that faith involves opening our hearts to Christ, rather than just accepting promises or gifts. This intimate connection with Jesus is what truly defines salvation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In him was life - Many MSS., versions, and fathers, connect this with the preceding verse, thus: All things were made by him, and without him was nothing made. What was made had life in it; but This Life was the light of men. That is, though every thing he made had a principle of life in it, whether vegetable, animal, or intellectual, yet this, that life or animal principle in the human being, was not the light of men; not that light which could guide them to heaven, for the world by wisdom knew not God, Co1 1:21. Therefore, the expression, in him was life, is not to be understood of life natural, but of that life eternal which he revealed to the world, Ti2 1:10, to which he taught the way, Joh 14:6, which he promised to believers, Joh 10:28, which he purchased for them, Joh 6:51, Joh 6:53, Joh 6:54, which he is appointed to give them, Joh 17:2, and to which he will raise them up, Joh 5:29, because he hath the life in himself, Joh 5:26. All this may be proved: 1. From the like expressions; Jo1 5:11, This is the promise that God hath given unto us, eternal life, and this life is in his Son: whence he is styled the true God and eternal life, Jo1 5:20; the resurrection and the life, Joh 11:25; the way, the truth, and the life, Joh 14:6. 2. From these words, Joh 1:7, John came to bear witness of this light, that all might believe through him, viz. to eternal life, Ti1 1:16; for so John witnesseth, Joh 3:15, Joh 3:36. And hence it follows that this life must be the light of men, by giving them the knowledge of this life, and of the way leading to it. See Whitby on the place. Is there any reference here to Gen 3:20 : And Adam called his wife's name Eve, חוה chava, Ζωη, Life, because she was the mother of all living? And was not Jesus that seed of the woman that was to bruise the head of the serpent, and to give life to the world?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In Him was life--essentially and originally, as the previous verses show to be the meaning. Thus He is the Living Word, or, as He is called in Jo1 1:1-2, "the Word of Life." the life . . . the light of men--All that in men which is true light--knowledge, integrity, intelligent, willing subjection to God, love to Him and to their fellow creatures, wisdom, purity, holy joy, rational happiness--all this "light of men" has its fountain in the essential original "life" of "the Word" (Jo1 1:5-7; Psa 36:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
In him was life,.... The Persic version reads in the plural number, "lives". There was life in the word with respect to himself; a divine life, the same with the life of the Father and of the Spirit; and is in him, not by gift, nor by derivation or communication; but originally, and independently, and from all eternity: indeed he lived before his incarnation as Mediator, and Redeemer. Job knew him in his time, as his living Redeemer; but this regards him as the word and living God, and distinguishes him from the written word, and shows that he is not a mere idea in the divine mind, but a truly divine person: and there was life in Christ the word, with respect to others; the fountain of natural life is in him, he is the efficient cause, and preserver of it; whether vegetative, animal, or rational; and proves him to be truly God, and that he existed before his incarnation; since creatures, who have received such a life from him, did: and spiritual life was also in him; all his elect are dead in trespasses and sins, and cannot quicken themselves. Christ has procured life for them, and gives it to them, and implants it in them; a life of sanctification is from him; and a life of justification is upon him, and of faith is by him; all the comforts of a spiritual life, and all things appertaining to it, are from him, and he maintains, and preserves it. Eternal life is in him, and with him; not the purpose of it only, nor the promise of it barely, but the gift of it itself; which was granted in consequence of his asking it, and which he had by way of stipulation; and hence has a right and power to bestow it: now, this being in him proves him to be the true God, and shows us where life is to be had, and the safety and security of it: and the life was the light of men; the life which was in, and by the word, was, with respect to men, a life of light, or a life attended with light: by which is meant, not a mere visive faculty, receptive of the sun's light, but rational knowledge and understanding; for when Christ, the word, breathed into man the breath of life, and he became a living soul, he filled him with rational light and knowledge. Adam had a knowledge of God; of his being, and perfections; of the persons in the Trinity; of his relation to God, dependence on him, and obligation to him; of his mind and will; and knew what it was to have communion with him. He knew much of himself, and of all the creatures; this knowledge was natural and perfect in its kind, but loseable; and different from that which saints now have of God, through Christ, the Mediator; and since this natural light was from Christ, the word, as a Creator, he must be the eternal God. The Socinians are not willing to allow this sense, but say that Christ is the light of men, by preaching the heavenly doctrine, and by the example of his holy life; but hereby he did not enlighten every man that cometh into the world; the greatest part of men, before the preaching, and example of Christ, sat in darkness; and the greatest part of the Jews remained in darkness, notwithstanding his preaching, and example; and the patriarchs that were enlightened under the former dispensation, were not enlightened this way: it will be owned, that all spiritual and supernatural light, which any of the sons of men have had, since the fall, was from Christ, from whom they had their spiritual life; even all spiritual light in conversion, and all after degrees of light; through him they enjoyed the light of God's countenance, and had the light of joy and gladness here, and of glory hereafter.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:4-5 God created light and dispelled the darkness (Gen 1:2-5). The darkness resists God (John 3:19-21; 12:35; Matt 6:23; Acts 26:17-18; Eph 4:17-19; 5:7-14; 2 Pet 1:19; 1 Jn 1:5-7; 2:9-11). 1:4 The Word gave life: Life was God’s original gift to his creatures (Gen 1:20-28; 2:7). Now the logos would give these creatures the possibility of new life through rebirth (John 1:13). • As one of his first creative acts, God brought light (Gen 1:3). Now, in the re-creation of humanity through Jesus Christ, God offered light and life anew. Light is a key theme in John’s Gospel.