John 1:5
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And the light shineth in darkness - By darkness here may be understood: 1. The heathen world, Eph 5:8. 2. The Jewish people. 3. The fallen spirit of man. Comprehended it not - Αυτο ου κατελαβεν, Prevented it not - hindered it not, says Mr. Wakefield, who adds the following judicious note: - "Even in the midst of that darkness of ignorance and idolatry which overspread the world, this light of Divine wisdom was not totally eclipsed: the Jewish nation was a lamp perpetually shining to the surrounding nations; and many bright luminaries, among the heathen, were never wanting in just and worthy notions of the attributes and providence of God's wisdom; which enabled them to shine in some degree, though but as lights in a dark place, Pe2 1:19. Compare Act 14:17; Act 17:28, Act 17:29."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
shineth in darkness, &c.--in this dark, fallen world, or in mankind "sitting in darkness and the shadow of death," with no ability to find the way either of truth or of holiness. In this thick darkness, and consequent intellectual and moral obliquity, "the light of the Word" shineth--by all the rays whether of natural or revealed teaching which men (apart from the Incarnation of the Word) are favored with. the darkness comprehended it not--did not take it in, a brief summary of the effect of all the strivings of this unincarnate Word throughout this wide world from the beginning, and a hint of the necessity of His putting on flesh, if any recovery of men was to be effected (Co1 1:21).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the light shineth in darkness,.... Which, through sin, came upon the minds of men; who are naturally in the dark about the nature and perfections of God; about sin, and the consequences of it; about Christ, and salvation by him; about the Spirit of God, and his work upon the soul; and about the Scriptures of truth, and the doctrines of the Gospel. Man was created a knowing creature, but, not content with his knowledge, sins, and is banished from the presence of God, the fountain of light; which brought a darkness on him, and his posterity, and which is increased in them by personal iniquity, and in which Satan, the god of this world, has an hand; and sometimes they are left to judicial blindness, and which issues in worse darkness, if grace prevents not: now amidst this darkness there were some remains of the light of nature: with respect to the being of God, which shines in the works of creation and providence and to the worship of God, though very dimly; and to the knowledge of moral good and evil: and the darkness comprehended it not; or "perceived it not"; as the Syriac version renders it. By the light of nature, and the remains of it, men could not come to any clear and distinct knowledge of the above things; and much less to any knowledge of the true way of salvation: unless, rather by the light should be meant, the light of the Messiah, or of the Gospel shining in the figures, types, and shadows of the law, and in the prophecies and promises of the Old Testament: and yet, such was the darkness upon the minds of men, that they could not very distinctly apprehend it, and much less fully comprehend it, so that there was need of a fresh and fuller revelation; an account of which follows;
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5 the darkness can never extinguish it: Or the darkness has not understood it; literally the darkness cannot grasp it. The Greek word katalambanō (“grasp”) can mean either “understand” or “be hostile”; in John’s Gospel, it means hostility. The darkness would try to destroy Jesus (the light), but it would fail. The light would successfully bring salvation to the world.
John 1:5
The Beginning
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
A Sermon That Has Angered Many - Examine Yourself
By Paul Washer37K1:13:10ExaminationISA 66:2JHN 1:5JHN 3:212CO 13:5JAS 1:131JN 1:81JN 3:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the fleeting nature of life and the importance of focusing on eternal things. He warns against being enslaved to the things of this present evil age and encourages listeners to set their hearts on Christ and follow him. The preacher also highlights the need for self-examination in light of the word of God and the importance of repentance and belief in Christ. He challenges the idea of a superficial Christianity that merely repeats words without genuine transformation. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep love for God and a recognition of His power and authority over all creation.
Powerful Testimony
By Corrie Ten Boom18K43:57TestimonyDEU 33:27HAB 2:14MAT 28:19JHN 1:5ROM 5:8EPH 5:18REV 21:4In this sermon, the speaker shares his joy in preaching the word of God and bringing comfort to Christians. He expresses his desire to reach out to the communists and asks God for a miracle to be able to do so. Later, he discovers a secret microphone in his hotel room and realizes that his message was recorded and shared with communist leaders. He rejoices in the opportunity to spread the gospel even to those who may oppose it. The speaker emphasizes the importance of every Christian being a light in the world and sharing the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
1 John 1
By William MacDonald11K35:29ExpositionalMAT 6:33JHN 1:51JN 1:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named George who had a moment of realization and decided to make things right. He had initially taken out his frustration on a child and then on his way, but he felt convicted and went back to apologize and reconcile. The speaker emphasizes that this story does not guarantee financial blessings every time someone confesses, but it serves as a reminder that God speaks to us through various means. The main message is that God wants our lives to be open and transparent, just as Jesus' coming into the world revealed the true nature of humanity. The speaker also encourages keeping short accounts with God and others, as it leads to blessings and spiritual growth.
Testimony
By Corrie Ten Boom8.0K58:59TestimonyJER 1:12HAB 2:14MAT 6:33JHN 1:5JHN 12:46ROM 8:18REV 21:4In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of visiting Russia and speaking to Christians there. He emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and the joy of speaking about the love of the Lord. The speaker then recounts a story from the time of the German occupation in Holland, where a young Christian boy named Pete learns the importance of sharing the way of salvation with others. Pete later finds himself in prison and uses his last days to share the gospel with his fellow inmates. The speaker also shares a personal story of being accused of having dangerous papers in their house, but the judge unexpectedly destroys the evidence. The sermon highlights the importance of being a light in the world and the power of the gospel to transform lives.
Treasure in Earthen Vessels
By Gayle Erwin2.0K44:39Christ In YouGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:52CO 3:172CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the contrast between the flesh and the mercy of God. He highlights the importance of knowing oneself and exposing it to God in order to receive His mercy and forgiveness. The preacher also warns against the deceptive mindset that we can achieve success and salvation through our own efforts, emphasizing that only the mercy of God can truly save us. He shares examples of false teachings and methods used by some individuals to manipulate and deceive people, emphasizing the need to preach Christ Jesus as the true source of salvation.
High Up in the Swiss Alps
By Basilea Schlink2.0K01:01PSA 27:1PSA 34:18MAT 5:14JHN 1:5JHN 8:12This sermon draws a parallel between the cold, sunless, empty ice grotto in the Swiss Alps and our hearts, highlighting the need for Jesus, the little Christ child, to fill our emptiness with love and worship. It emphasizes that Jesus is like a constant sun that can illuminate even the darkest places in our hearts, bringing joy and comfort in times of sadness.
(1 John #4) Since God Is Light
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K29:42God's HolinessLEV 11:44MAT 5:14MAT 5:48JHN 1:51PE 1:161JN 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the message of Jesus Christ, which was taught by Him and received by the apostles. The preacher highlights that Jesus is not just the gentle and meek figure often portrayed, but also the Son of God and the source of the message of God's holiness. The preacher explains that fellowship with God can only be achieved through His holiness, and that growing spiritually involves relating our lives to His holiness. The sermon also touches on the concept of God's love, life, and His consuming fire, and raises questions about the necessity of repentance and being born again.
The Darkness-Despeller in Darkness
By Roger Ellsworth1.2K28:20ISA 9:2MAT 6:33MAT 27:45MRK 10:46JHN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the astonishing nature of the darkness that fell upon Golgotha when Jesus was crucified. He highlights the Lord Jesus as the dispeller of darkness and urges the audience to love Him with a burning love. The speaker discusses the unprecedented darkness that shrouded Golgotha on the day of crucifixion and emphasizes the fitting nature of this darkness. He encourages believers to regain a sense of awe and wonder over what Jesus did on Calvary's Cross. The sermon is based on Matthew 27:45-46 and aims to warm the hearts of the audience towards the Lord Jesus Christ and His redeeming work.
A Light in the Darkness
By Ian Paisley1.1K55:25PSA 27:1PSA 112:4ISA 42:16JHN 1:5JHN 8:122CO 4:6EPH 5:81JN 1:5This sermon emphasizes the theme of light in the darkness, highlighting the struggles faced by the upright, the dangers of apostasy, and the need for God's intervention and guidance. It traces historical events where God's light shone in times of darkness, leading to victories and the preservation of truth. The speaker reflects on the formation of the Free Presbyterian Church amidst opposition, celebrating God's faithfulness and the ongoing battle against apostasy.
Mau Mau 1957
By Ken Terhoven1.1K1:04:30Faith Under PersecutionThe Cost of DiscipleshipKenyaMAT 5:14JHN 1:5Ken Terhoven's sermon 'Mau Mau 1957' recounts the harrowing experiences of Kikuyu Christians during the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya, emphasizing their unwavering faith amidst brutal persecution. He highlights the stark contrast between the darkness of the Mau Mau's violent oaths and the light of the gospel that transformed lives, showcasing the courage of believers like Chief Lucky and Chief Joseph who stood firm in their faith despite facing death. Terhoven urges listeners to reflect on the value of their own faith and the sacrifices made by these Christians, challenging the notion that Christianity is merely for the weak. The sermon serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship and the call to live boldly for Christ, even in the face of adversity.
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.
When the Lord Passes By
By Carter Conlon24745:08Christian LifeGEN 1:3PSA 119:105ISA 9:2EZK 16:21MAT 6:33JHN 1:52CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of selfishness and the importance of being part of the giving crowd rather than the taking crowd. He emphasizes the need to recognize our own mistakes and come back to God. The speaker uses the story of the prodigal son from Luke 15 to illustrate this point. The prodigal son realizes his selfishness and decides to return to his father's house where he knows he will be provided for. The speaker encourages the audience, especially young people, to listen and reflect on their own actions and choices. He reminds them of the power of God's voice in bringing light into darkness and urges them to remember the moment when they first opened their hearts to God.
David: Being a Person of One Thing
By Mike Bickle2748:27Radical CommitmentPursuit of GodPSA 27:4PSA 34:5PSA 145:5MAT 11:12LUK 10:41JHN 1:51CO 4:9PHP 3:131JN 1:7REV 4:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Psalm 27:4, where David expresses his singular desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and behold His beauty. He challenges listeners to approach this verse with fresh eyes, recognizing its depth and the radical commitment it requires. Bickle highlights that this 'one thing' lifestyle is often domesticated in modern culture, yet it is a divine invitation to a deeper relationship with God. He encourages believers to contend for this reality, understanding that it is not an automatic state but a result of years of seeking and pressing into God. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a radical re-evaluation of priorities, urging individuals to make the pursuit of God's beauty their primary daydream.
Amos 8:9
By Chuck Smith0RedemptionProphecy FulfillmentISA 9:6MIC 5:2MAT 2:16MAT 27:45LUK 19:10JHN 1:5JHN 3:16JHN 8:121PE 1:18REV 13:8Chuck Smith emphasizes the profound significance of God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, who was sent to redeem humanity. He discusses the various attempts by Satan to thwart Jesus' mission, including the massacre of infants and the temptations faced during His ministry. Smith highlights the prophetic fulfillment surrounding Jesus' life, death, and the darkness that enveloped the earth at His crucifixion, symbolizing the weight of sin and rejection of God. He urges listeners to recognize the gravity of these events and the love of God manifested through Christ's sacrifice. The sermon calls for reflection on the light of Christ in contrast to the darkness of sin.
Matthew 5:14
By Chuck Smith0Christian IdentityLight Of The WorldISA 60:1MAT 5:14MAT 5:16JHN 1:5JHN 8:12ROM 13:122CO 4:6EPH 5:8PHP 2:151PE 2:9Chuck Smith emphasizes that Christians are the light of the world, a profound statement given the darkness that pervades society. He argues that while the world seeks enlightenment through knowledge and education, it ultimately fails to address the real issues of human relationships and moral decay. The true light comes from Christ, who not only illuminates our lives but also shines through us, enabling us to reflect His light in a dark world. Smith challenges believers to consider whether their lives demonstrate a distinct difference that points others to Christ. The sermon calls for Christians to embrace their role as the sole source of light in a world desperately in need of hope and truth.
Darkness Cannot Stop the Light!
By David Wilkerson0Light in DarknessHope in DespairISA 9:2ISA 42:16MAT 5:14JHN 1:5David Wilkerson emphasizes that despite the increasing darkness and moral decline in society, the light of the gospel will always prevail. He reflects on his early warnings about the rise of drugs and immorality, which many dismissed, yet have now become a reality. Wilkerson encourages believers not to be intimidated by the darkness, reminding them that God's light will shine even brighter in times of despair. He cites Isaiah's prophecies to affirm that God will lead and guide His people through the darkness. Ultimately, he calls for a focus on God's light rather than the surrounding darkness.
The Lord My Light
By Octavius Winslow0Light of ChristSpiritual TransformationPSA 27:1ISA 60:19MAT 5:14JHN 1:5JHN 8:12ROM 13:122CO 4:6EPH 5:8COL 1:131PE 2:9Octavius Winslow emphasizes that the Lord is our light and portion, guiding believers from spiritual darkness into His marvelous light. He illustrates how nature reflects God's glory and serves as a reminder of Christ's presence, urging the unconverted to recognize their dire state without Him. True conversion is described as a calling out of darkness into light, highlighting the importance of being born again and becoming a child of the light. Winslow reassures believers that Christ is their light in every aspect of life, providing hope and guidance through trials until they reach eternal glory. The sermon concludes with the promise of everlasting light in God's presence, where sorrow will cease.
1 John 1:5
By John Gill0God as LightCommunion with GodPSA 36:9ISA 60:1MAT 5:14JHN 1:5JHN 8:12EPH 5:81TI 6:16JAS 1:171PE 2:91JN 1:5John Gill emphasizes that the message from God, as revealed through Christ, is that God is light, symbolizing purity, holiness, and knowledge, devoid of any darkness or sin. This declaration serves as a promise that those who walk in the light will have communion with Him, while those in darkness will not. Gill explains that God, being light, illuminates the truth and is knowable through His creation and His Word, particularly through His Son. He stresses that God's nature is unchanging and perfectly holy, contrasting with the ignorance and sin found in humanity. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize and embrace the light of God in their lives.
Conquering the Darkness
By David Wilkerson0Light vs. DarknessThe Power of the Holy SpiritPSA 55:22ISA 9:2MAT 11:28JHN 1:5ROM 15:132CO 1:3PHP 4:61PE 5:71JN 4:4REV 9:3David Wilkerson emphasizes that light is the only force that can conquer darkness, as illustrated in Isaiah and John. He explains that light symbolizes understanding and that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to overcome the challenges posed by darkness and fear. Wilkerson encourages Christians to cast their burdens onto the Holy Spirit, who is present to guide and comfort them through difficult times. He highlights that true testimony comes from those who embody joy and trust in God, even amidst overwhelming problems. Ultimately, the presence of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives serves as a beacon of hope to a world in darkness.
The Light Was Before Time
By George Fox0Walking in the LightUnity in ChristMAT 5:14JHN 1:5JHN 15:5ROM 13:122CO 4:6EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 1:131PE 2:91JN 1:7George Fox emphasizes the importance of unity among the Saints, which is found in the Light that condemns the world. He warns against living in one's own will while professing faith, as this leads to division and lack of true unity. Walking in the Eternal Light brings clarity and strength against deceit and unrighteousness, while those who reject this Light face condemnation. Fox encourages believers to dwell in God's pure Light, which was present before time and continues to reveal the truth of our actions. He concludes with a call to abide in Christ, the true Vine, to experience spiritual growth and unity.
Dagon Was Fallen Upon His Face to the Earth
By F.B. Meyer0IdolatryDivine SupremacyEXO 12:121SA 5:3PSA 96:5ISA 2:18MAT 5:14JHN 1:5ROM 12:22CO 6:14COL 3:51JN 5:21F.B. Meyer emphasizes the confrontation between the Ark of the Lord and the idol Dagon, illustrating the supremacy of Jehovah over false gods. The fall of Dagon symbolizes the inevitable defeat of all idols when faced with the true power of God. Meyer encourages believers to invite the presence of God into their lives, assuring that the idols that have dominated them will fall away. This message serves as a reminder of God's ability to defend His greatness and the transformative power of allowing Christ to take full possession of one's heart. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a personal encounter with God that leads to the destruction of all that opposes Him.
Jesus, as the Light, Brings to Light the Works of the Devil in Order to Destroy Them
By T. Austin-Sparks0Overcoming DarknessLight of ChristMAT 5:14JHN 1:5JHN 8:12JHN 14:17JHN 21:252CO 4:6EPH 5:81JN 1:51JN 3:81JN 5:13T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that Jesus, as the Light, reveals the true nature of humanity and the works of the devil, aiming to destroy them. He highlights that the confusion and division among believers stem from the devil's influence, and the solution lies in returning to the person of Jesus Christ, who brings clarity and assurance. Sparks points out that true fellowship and joy come from walking in the Light, which exposes sin and brings healing. He urges believers to recognize the transformative power of Christ's presence in their lives, which should lead to a reaction against darkness and evil. Ultimately, the message is that the Light of God, embodied in Jesus, is the antidote to all spiritual troubles.
And God Saw the Light, That It Was Good
By C.H. Spurgeon0Light and DarknessSpiritual IlluminationGEN 1:3PSA 36:9ECC 11:7MAT 5:14JHN 1:5JHN 8:122CO 6:14EPH 5:81TH 5:51JN 1:5C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the goodness of light, which originates from God's command, 'Let there be light.' He urges believers to appreciate both physical and spiritual light, the latter being essential for understanding God's glory and our own sinful nature. Spurgeon highlights the necessity of distinguishing between light and darkness, encouraging Christians to live in a way that reflects their identity as children of light. He calls for a commitment to holiness and separation from the darkness of the world, seeking more of God's true light in their lives. Ultimately, he prays for Jesus to be the guiding light for believers.
Charles S. Price on Divine Healing
By Charles S. Price0PRO 3:6MRK 5:30JHN 1:5ROM 8:11CO 15:532CO 3:182CO 12:9EPH 2:8Charles S. Price emphasizes the importance of allowing the light of Jesus to enter our lives rather than struggling to remove darkness, pains, sins, and weaknesses on our own. He highlights that true deliverance from the devil's power comes from admitting and giving authority to the Lord Jesus, as salvation is not achieved through our actions but through being transformed into His image. Price also discusses how Divine Healing is surpassed by the ultimate goal of Divine Health, where the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus sets us free from the law of sin and death.
Epistle 114
By George Fox0MAT 11:5MAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 1:51CO 9:102CO 5:11COL 1:231PE 3:19JUD 1:6REV 14:6George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in the mighty power of God, being sent by God to minister to all spirits and testify against deceivers. He emphasizes preaching the gospel to every creature, disciplining them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and proclaiming the mighty day of the Lord to those in darkness. Fox urges believers to plant in hope, thresh in hope, and preach the everlasting gospel in the power of the Lord Jesus Christ, performing miracles by His power.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And the light shineth in darkness - By darkness here may be understood: 1. The heathen world, Eph 5:8. 2. The Jewish people. 3. The fallen spirit of man. Comprehended it not - Αυτο ου κατελαβεν, Prevented it not - hindered it not, says Mr. Wakefield, who adds the following judicious note: - "Even in the midst of that darkness of ignorance and idolatry which overspread the world, this light of Divine wisdom was not totally eclipsed: the Jewish nation was a lamp perpetually shining to the surrounding nations; and many bright luminaries, among the heathen, were never wanting in just and worthy notions of the attributes and providence of God's wisdom; which enabled them to shine in some degree, though but as lights in a dark place, Pe2 1:19. Compare Act 14:17; Act 17:28, Act 17:29."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
shineth in darkness, &c.--in this dark, fallen world, or in mankind "sitting in darkness and the shadow of death," with no ability to find the way either of truth or of holiness. In this thick darkness, and consequent intellectual and moral obliquity, "the light of the Word" shineth--by all the rays whether of natural or revealed teaching which men (apart from the Incarnation of the Word) are favored with. the darkness comprehended it not--did not take it in, a brief summary of the effect of all the strivings of this unincarnate Word throughout this wide world from the beginning, and a hint of the necessity of His putting on flesh, if any recovery of men was to be effected (Co1 1:21).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the light shineth in darkness,.... Which, through sin, came upon the minds of men; who are naturally in the dark about the nature and perfections of God; about sin, and the consequences of it; about Christ, and salvation by him; about the Spirit of God, and his work upon the soul; and about the Scriptures of truth, and the doctrines of the Gospel. Man was created a knowing creature, but, not content with his knowledge, sins, and is banished from the presence of God, the fountain of light; which brought a darkness on him, and his posterity, and which is increased in them by personal iniquity, and in which Satan, the god of this world, has an hand; and sometimes they are left to judicial blindness, and which issues in worse darkness, if grace prevents not: now amidst this darkness there were some remains of the light of nature: with respect to the being of God, which shines in the works of creation and providence and to the worship of God, though very dimly; and to the knowledge of moral good and evil: and the darkness comprehended it not; or "perceived it not"; as the Syriac version renders it. By the light of nature, and the remains of it, men could not come to any clear and distinct knowledge of the above things; and much less to any knowledge of the true way of salvation: unless, rather by the light should be meant, the light of the Messiah, or of the Gospel shining in the figures, types, and shadows of the law, and in the prophecies and promises of the Old Testament: and yet, such was the darkness upon the minds of men, that they could not very distinctly apprehend it, and much less fully comprehend it, so that there was need of a fresh and fuller revelation; an account of which follows;
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5 the darkness can never extinguish it: Or the darkness has not understood it; literally the darkness cannot grasp it. The Greek word katalambanō (“grasp”) can mean either “understand” or “be hostile”; in John’s Gospel, it means hostility. The darkness would try to destroy Jesus (the light), but it would fail. The light would successfully bring salvation to the world.