John 1:9
Verse
Context
Sermons
A.W. Tozer
Chuck MisslerA.W. Tozer
J. Vernon McGee
Stephen Olford
Norman GrubbSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Which lighteth every man - As Christ is the Spring and Fountain of all wisdom, so all the wisdom that is in man comes from him; the human intellect is a ray from his brightness; and reason itself springs from this Logos, the eternal reason. Some of the most eminent rabbins understand Isa 60:1, Rise and shine, for thy Light is come, of the Messiah who was to illuminate Israel, and who, they believe, was referred to in that word, Gen 1:3, And God said, Let there be Light; and there was light. Let a Messiah be provided; and a Messiah was accordingly provided. See Schoettgen. That cometh into the world - Or, coming into the world - ερχομενον εις τον κοσμον: a common phrase among the rabbins, to express every human being. As the human creature sees the light of the world as soon as it is born, from which it had been excluded while in the womb of its parent; in like manner, this heavenly light shines into the soul of every man, to convince of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and it is through this light, which no man brings into the world with him, but which Christ mercifully gives to him on his coming into it, that what is termed conscience among men is produced. No man could discern good from evil, were it not for this light thus supernaturally and graciously restored. There was much light in the law, but this shone only upon the Jews; but the superior light of the Gospel is to be diffused over the face of the whole earth. The following not only proves what is asserted in this verse, but is also an excellent illustration of it. The Gayatri, or holiest verse of the Vedas, i.e. the ancient Hindoo Scriptures. "Let us adore the supremacy of that divine Sun, the Godhead who illuminates all, who re-creates all; from whom all proceed; to whom all must return; whom we invoke to direct our understandings aright, in our progress towards his holy seat." The ancient comment. "What the sun and light are to this visible world, that are the supreme good and truth to the intellectual and invisible universe; and, as our corporeal eyes have a distinct perception of objects enlightened by the sun, thus our souls acquire certain knowledge by meditating on the light of truth, which emanates from the Being of beings; that is the light by which alone our minds can be directed in the path to blessedness." Sir Wm. Jones's works, vol. vi. p. 417. Sir William observes that the original word Bhargas, which he translates Godhead, consists of three consonants, and is derived from bha, to shine; ram, to delight; and gam, to move: - the Being who is the light, the source of happiness, and the all-pervading energy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
lighteth every man, &c.--rather, "which, coming into the world, enlighteneth every man"; or, is "the Light of the world" (Joh 9:5). "Coming into the world" is a superfluous and quite unusual description of "every man"; but it is of all descriptions of Christ amongst the most familiar, especially in the writings of this Evangelist (Joh 12:46; Joh 16:28; Joh 18:37; Jo1 4:9; Ti1 1:15, &c.).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That was the true light,.... Christ is that light, that famous and excellent light, the fountain of all light to all creatures; that gave light to the dark earth at first, and spoke light out of darkness; that light of all men in the earth, and of all the angels in heaven, and of all the saints below, and of all the glorified ones above: he is the true light, in distinction from typical lights; the "Urim" of the former dispensation; the candlestick, with the lamps of it; the pillar of fire which directed the Israelites by night in the wilderness; and from all the typical light there was in the institutions and sacrifices of the law; and in opposition to the law itself, which the Jews (z) magnify, and cry up as the light, saying, there is no light but the law; and in opposition to all false lights, as priests, diviners, and soothsayers among the Gentiles, Scribes, and Pharisees, and the learned Rabbins among the Jews, so much boasted of as the lights of the world; and to all false Christs and prophets that have risen, or shall rise, in the world, Which lighteth every man that cometh into the world: the sense is, either that every man that is enlightened in a spiritual manner, is enlightened by him, which is true of Christ, as the Son of God, existing from the beginning; but not in the Socinian sense, as if they were enlightened by his human ministry and example; for the Old Testament saints were not enlightened by his preaching; and many were enlightened by the ministry of John the Baptist; and multitudes afterwards, through the ministry of the apostles; and very few, comparatively, were enlightened under the ministry of Christ; and none we read of, in this sense, enlightened by him, when, and as soon as they came into, the world: or, the meaning is, that he is that light which lighteth all sorts of men; which is true in, a spiritual sense: some connect the phrase, "that cometh into the world", not with "every man", but with the "true light"; and the Arabic version so reads, and joins it to the following verse; but this reading is not so natural and the order of the words requires the common reading; nor is the difficulty removed hereby; for still it is every man that is enlightened: it is best therefore to understand these words of the light of nature, and reason, which Christ, as the word, and Creator and light of men, gives to every man that is born into the world; and which serves to detect the Quakers' notion of the light within, which every man has, and is no other than the light of a natural conscience; and shows how much men, even natural men, are obliged to Christ, and how great a person he is, and how deserving of praise, honour, and glory. The phrase, "every man that cometh into the world", is Jewish, and often to be met with in Rabbinical writings, and signifies all men that are born into the world; the instances are almost innumerable; take one or two: on those words in Job 25:3 on whom doth not his light arise? it is asked (a), who is he that cometh, , "of all that come into the world"; and says, the sun hath not lightened me by day, nor hath the moon lightened me by night! thou enlightenest those above, and those below, and "all that come into the world". Again, God is introduced thus speaking (b): "I am the God, , "of all that come into the world"; and I have not united my name, but to the people of Israel. Once more (c), "Moses, our master, from the mouth of power, (i.e. God; see Mat 26:64.) commanded to oblige, , "all that come into the world", to receive the commandments which were commanded the sons of Noah. (z) T. Bava Bathra, fol. 4. 1. (a) Vajikra Rabba, sect. 31. fol. 171. 4. (b) Midrash Ruth, c. l. v. 1. fol. 27. 3. (c) Maimon. Hilch. Melakim. c. 8. sect. 10. Vid. Misn. Roshhashana, c. l. sect. 2. T. Hieros. Sanhedrin, fol. 25. 4. & 26. 3. Sepher Bahir apud Zohar in Gen. fol. 30. 3. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 21. 2. & 22. 3. & 24. 3. & 27. 2. Caphter, fol. 56. 1. Jarchi in Exod. 15. 2.
John 1:9
The Witness of John
8He himself was not the Light, but he came to testify about the Light.9The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world.10He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Theology of Christmas
By A.W. Tozer7.1K42:00ChristmasJHN 1:4JHN 1:9JHN 1:141JN 1:11JN 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of waking up in the night to pray. He shares his personal experience of talking to the Lord before getting out of bed most mornings, but sometimes struggling to do so. The speaker then focuses on the message found in 1 John 1:5, which declares that God is light and there is no darkness in Him. He highlights the trustworthiness of God and encourages the audience to put their faith in Him. The sermon concludes by discussing the theology of Christmas and the need to sing theology rather than just songs.
(Worship - Part 1): He Is Lord, Worship Him
By A.W. Tozer6.7K43:05WorshipLEV 8:12PSA 147:3PSA 148:1MAT 6:33JHN 1:9JHN 4:242TH 1:10REV 5:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the purpose of God creating man, which is to worship Him. However, due to the fall of man through sin, humanity has failed to fulfill this purpose. The preacher compares this failure to various objects that are unable to fulfill their intended purpose, such as a cloud without rain or a tree without fruit. The preacher expresses his excitement about teaching young college students about worshiping God and encourages them to turn away from worldly distractions. The sermon also references Bible verses, such as Psalm 45, which speaks of the King's desire for worship and the anointing of God's chosen one. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the importance of learning how to worship and expressing his intention to continue teaching about worship in Norfolk, Virginia.
Genesis #03 Ch. 1:3-19 Let Light Be
By Chuck Missler6.0K1:28:21GenesisGEN 1:1EXO 13:21JHN 1:7JHN 1:9ACT 17:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of a hologram and how it relates to our understanding of God's creation. He explains that a hologram is like a window into a smaller universe, and the size of the window determines the resolution of the image. The speaker emphasizes that his intention is not to teach, but to stimulate the audience to do their own research and study the Scriptures. He also highlights the significance of light in both the book of Genesis and the Gospel of John, emphasizing that Jesus is the true light that came into the world.
The Ministry of the Night
By A.W. Tozer4.6K29:09MinistryPSA 30:5PSA 51:10MAT 5:14JHN 1:9ACT 9:32CO 4:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of conversion and describes it as a call from God to move from darkness and wickedness into light and holiness. He emphasizes that this call is constant and ongoing. The preacher also highlights the transformative power of conversion, stating that it brings about honesty, purity, love, charity, and truth. He urges Christians to remember the significance of their own conversion experiences and to continually refresh their souls. The sermon draws parallels between the light of God and the knowledge, perception, and guidance that it brings to believers on their journey.
(Exodus) Exodus 25:31-40
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K06:16ExpositionalEXO 25:31MAT 4:4JHN 1:9JHN 16:14EPH 5:8COL 2:81TI 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of worshiping God and walking in the light. He compares the lampstand in the tabernacle to Christ, describing it as a perfect picture of his deity. The preacher explains that true worship involves feeding on Christ, rather than being entertained or discussing social issues. He also highlights the need to avoid being deceived by worldly philosophies and vain deceit. The sermon references verses from the Bible, such as John 1:9 and Colossians 2:8, to support these teachings.
(I Want an Answer) Is Christianity Practical?
By Stephen Olford3.2K44:11MAT 7:7MAT 11:28JHN 1:9ROM 10:92CO 5:17REV 3:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of the spoken word of God. He explains that just as the energy of God's word created and sustains the physical world, it also has the power to bring spiritual life to individuals. The speaker describes Jesus as the embodiment of this divine energy, with the ability to give life to those who hear his voice. He encourages the audience to seek the reality and vitality that can only be found in Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life. The speaker also highlights the authority and finality of Jesus, who stands at the door of their hearts, ready to bring transformation and meet their deepest needs.
Where We Begin
By Norman Grubb3.1K54:36ISA 14:12EZK 28:17JHN 1:9ROM 5:5ROM 6:8HEB 12:231PE 3:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of slavery and how it has been the eternal purpose of God. He explains that as humans, we have been enslaved to our flesh and have gone astray from God's intended plan. The preacher emphasizes the importance of choosing to align ourselves with the spirit rather than the flesh. He also highlights the need to experience and rely on the availability and desirability of God's presence in our lives.
What Is Your Goal in Life?
By Paul Washer2.9K1:33:01PurposeEXO 20:24EXO 34:5MAT 1:21JHN 1:9JHN 3:141TI 1:15In this video, the speaker reflects on the brevity of life and the importance of considering what will be written on one's tombstone. He shares his hesitation in giving his testimony but feels called by the Lord to do so. The speaker emphasizes the significance of relationships in Christianity, highlighting the importance of loving God and others. He also reminds the audience that life is temporary and encourages them to live with purpose and not chase after meaningless things.
Helps in Soul-Winning
By Gerhard Du Toit2.6K1:04:21Soul WinningMIC 7:18MAT 11:28LUK 15:7JHN 1:9JHN 6:37ACT 3:19ROM 3:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the condition of man as lost in order to effectively share the gospel. He mentions conducting seminars on soul-winning and counseling pastors for salvation. The speaker highlights the power of the Word of God in convicting individuals of sin and shares a personal experience with the president of South Africa who was saved. He also provides practical advice for soul-winners, emphasizing the need for reliance on God and addressing difficulties that may arise during counseling. The sermon references the Bible verse Hebrews 4:12 to emphasize the power of the Word of God.
Three Men Going to Hell
By Eli Brayley2.5K13:47HellJHN 1:9JHN 3:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of faith, stating that it is more precious than gold. He confronts a person named Mr. Obsonant, who refuses to walk in the light of God and obey His teachings. The preacher warns that on the judgment day, everyone's deeds will be exposed before God, man, and the angels. He also highlights the consequences of living in darkness and doing things that one knows are wrong, emphasizing the need to come into the light and follow God's truth.
Baptism of Suffering
By Edgar F. Parkyns2.2K1:04:12SufferingMAT 3:11MAT 10:16MAT 10:22LUK 3:16JHN 1:6JHN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the words of John the Baptist as recorded in Luke 3:16. John declares that there is someone mightier than him who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. The preacher emphasizes the importance of self-examination and repentance in response to the message of John the Baptist. He also highlights the role of John as the herald of Jesus Christ and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The sermon concludes with the proclamation of Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Light Rejected! Light Neglected! Light Reflected!
By Keith Daniel1.9K1:18:01Rebellion Of ManMAT 22:9MRK 16:15JHN 1:9JHN 3:162PE 1:81JN 1:5REV 14:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing every word in the Bible and warns against denying its truth. He warns that those who deny God's word will face severe judgment. The preacher also highlights the urgency of repentance and the need to be prepared for the return of Jesus. He uses the parable of the wedding feast to illustrate the consequences of not being clothed in the righteousness of Christ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and surrendering to God's will, while acknowledging that believers are not yet perfected but are continually cleansed by the blood of Jesus.
Bist Du Wiedergeboren? (German)
By Corrie Ten Boom1.3K1:03:11GermanMAT 5:43MAT 6:33MAT 11:28JHN 1:9ROM 8:1ROM 8:32In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering our difficulties and problems to God, as He can turn them into miracles. The preacher uses the analogy of a pocket lamp with a dead battery to illustrate how without the power of God, our lives can be devoid of light. The message is directed towards those who have already accepted Jesus and become children of God. The preacher also highlights the significance of confessing our sins and seeking forgiveness, drawing from the example of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's power and to rely on His grace for transformation and freedom from sin.
A Revolution in Discipleship
By George Verwer1.1K59:04DiscipleshipLUK 14:33JHN 1:9JHN 3:161JN 3:161JN 3:18In this sermon, the speaker expresses his concern about effectively communicating his message to new listeners. He acknowledges that his passionate and extroverted style may not resonate with everyone. He emphasizes the importance of spending time with God through worship, prayer, praise, thanksgiving, and adoration. The speaker identifies five barriers that hinder people from truly knowing God and experiencing victory in their lives: busyness, worry, materialism, love for the world, and love for money. He encourages the audience to seek God above all else and to prioritize their relationship with Him.
Ye Are Not Your Own
By Tanner Leibee94644:16Gods PossessionMAT 6:10MAT 6:33LUK 22:42JHN 1:9JHN 4:34JHN 12:491CO 6:19In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the prayers offered for Rebecca and their family. The sermon takes place on the last day of Youth Bible School, and the speaker emphasizes that our outer life is a reflection of our inner life. The speaker then directs the audience to 1 Corinthians 6, where it is stated that believers are bought and owned by God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as the captain of our lives and surrendering our rights to Him.
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.
Studies in 1 Thessalonians 01 Conversion
By Svend Christensen76458:50EXO 38:8MAT 6:33JHN 1:7JHN 1:91JN 1:11JN 3:10In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who asks a young boy to bring him water. The man uses the water to wash his feet before going to remember the Lord in the breaking of bread. However, as the man and others walk back to the village, their feet become covered in dust and leaves. The speaker then shares a conversation he had with a man named Mr. Brown, who claimed to have accepted Jesus as his Savior but then lived in sin for 20 years. The speaker initially doubts Mr. Brown's story but later realizes that just like pigs enjoy wallowing in smelly mud, some people may choose to live in sin despite knowing the truth of the gospel.
The Five Point Relationship of the Child of God
By Ian Paisley55334:51ISA 57:19DAN 12:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:9JHN 1:12ROM 8:1EPH 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of true love and turning people to righteousness. He encourages the congregation to have a passion for the souls of others and to pray for a wealthy relationship with God. The preacher also highlights the miraculous work of Jesus Christ in the earth, using the example of Mordecai, a childless man who became the spiritual father of a whole nation. The sermon concludes with a call to seek the wealth of the church, not in terms of finances, but in knowledge of the Lord and Christian service.
The Happy Man 02 God in Us
By James K. Boswell48345:36JHN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a little boy riding on the back of an elephant named Jumbo. The boy tells Jumbo that he is greater than the elephant because he has both human life and animal life of a higher degree. The preacher then shifts the topic to discuss what a happy man looks like and announces that he will speak on the joy of the Christian life in the morning and favorite Psalms in the evening. The sermon emphasizes the importance of faith in God and the transformative power of believing in Jesus Christ.
The 4 Faces of Christ Rev 4
By Billy Strachan35634:32ChristISA 55:8EZK 1:1JHN 1:9REV 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking the Lord with our whole mind, will, and emotions. He encourages the audience not to let negative feelings or distractions hinder their pursuit of God. The preacher refers to the vision of the apostle John in the book of Revelation, where he saw four faces representing different aspects of God's character. The sermon concludes with a call to strive to manifest all four aspects in our lives and to worship and honor God.
Supernatural Opposition
By Bud Elford2891:24:46Spiritual WarfarePSA 119:62MAT 7:20MRK 16:17JHN 1:9ACT 9:18ROM 12:2JAS 5:14In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about two stray cats that were let into a missionary's home. The white cat made a terrible noise and left, while the black cat stood up on its back legs and spoke in audible English. The preacher then transitions to talking about the mission work among the native people of Canada. He mentions an old Indian man named William Papanicus who was impacted by the Methodist revival. The preacher emphasizes the need for more evangelical missionaries in over 100 Indian and Eskimo villages that do not receive visits. He also shares a personal experience of encountering a ruling spirit in a native village. The sermon concludes with a reference to Revelation 12, highlighting the power of testimony in overcoming Satan.
The Inner and the Outer Revelation
By Charles Finney0Moral ConvictionInner RevelationPSA 19:1ISA 55:1JER 29:13MAT 7:7JHN 1:9ROM 1:202CO 4:2EPH 2:8HEB 10:22REV 22:17Charles Finney addresses the prevalent infidelity among young men, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of both the inner moral convictions and the outer revelation of God through Scripture. He argues that many doubt the Bible not from honest study but from a lack of introspection into their own moral nature, which inherently reveals truths about God and moral law. Finney illustrates how the intuitive affirmations of our minds align with the teachings of the Bible, making it essential for individuals to recognize their moral obligations and the need for salvation. He encourages listeners to confront their own beliefs and the necessity of accepting the gospel as the solution to their spiritual needs. Ultimately, he calls for a personal response to God's offer of mercy and salvation.
Epistle 279
By George Fox0Faith and PerseveranceTransformation in ChristEZK 34:12MAT 18:20JHN 1:9JHN 6:53ROM 8:171CO 15:22EPH 2:6HEB 10:221PE 2:25REV 5:10George Fox emphasizes the transformative power of Christ, the heavenly man, who brings believers from death to life through His blood. He encourages the gathered friends of Christ to remain steadfast in their faith, highlighting the importance of being part of the congregation of the living, which is sustained by Christ as their shepherd and bishop. Fox warns against the dangers of returning to old ways and stresses the necessity of standing firm in the light and truth of the gospel, which empowers believers to overcome trials and tribulations. He reassures them that in Christ, they find eternal rest and a royal inheritance, urging them to keep their focus on Him amidst worldly distractions.
Epistle 25
By George Fox0Walking in the LightFaithfulness to GodMAT 5:37MRK 14:21JHN 1:9JHN 1:12ACT 7:521CO 15:33PHP 3:20HEB 13:81JN 1:3JUD 1:11George Fox emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God’s love and truth, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and avoid turning away from the light that Jesus Christ provides. He warns against the corrupting influences of the world and the dangers of following false teachers, likening those who stray from the light to biblical figures like Judas and Cain. Fox encourages the faithful to embrace the light, which leads to unity with God and true understanding of the scriptures, while condemning the empty knowledge of those outside the life of Christ. He calls for a commitment to the light that brings salvation and fellowship with the Father and the Son, urging all to wait in the light for Christ, the savior of their souls.
Epistle 42
By George Fox0Discernment of False TeachersLiving in the LightJER 5:31EZK 34:8MAT 23:6JHN 1:9JHN 3:19JHN 8:12JHN 10:12ROM 8:142CO 5:172JN 1:7JUD 1:11George Fox addresses all Friends scattered abroad, urging them to dwell in the light that comes from Christ, which enables them to see Him as their Savior and grow in Him. He emphasizes that those who are in Christ are new creations, free from condemnation, and are led by the Spirit to discern the deceivers and antichrists in the world. Fox warns against false teachers and prophets who exploit the people and highlights the importance of walking in the light to receive the light of life. He reiterates that the light reveals the true nature of those who oppose it and condemns their actions. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the light, which brings clarity and truth amidst the darkness.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Which lighteth every man - As Christ is the Spring and Fountain of all wisdom, so all the wisdom that is in man comes from him; the human intellect is a ray from his brightness; and reason itself springs from this Logos, the eternal reason. Some of the most eminent rabbins understand Isa 60:1, Rise and shine, for thy Light is come, of the Messiah who was to illuminate Israel, and who, they believe, was referred to in that word, Gen 1:3, And God said, Let there be Light; and there was light. Let a Messiah be provided; and a Messiah was accordingly provided. See Schoettgen. That cometh into the world - Or, coming into the world - ερχομενον εις τον κοσμον: a common phrase among the rabbins, to express every human being. As the human creature sees the light of the world as soon as it is born, from which it had been excluded while in the womb of its parent; in like manner, this heavenly light shines into the soul of every man, to convince of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and it is through this light, which no man brings into the world with him, but which Christ mercifully gives to him on his coming into it, that what is termed conscience among men is produced. No man could discern good from evil, were it not for this light thus supernaturally and graciously restored. There was much light in the law, but this shone only upon the Jews; but the superior light of the Gospel is to be diffused over the face of the whole earth. The following not only proves what is asserted in this verse, but is also an excellent illustration of it. The Gayatri, or holiest verse of the Vedas, i.e. the ancient Hindoo Scriptures. "Let us adore the supremacy of that divine Sun, the Godhead who illuminates all, who re-creates all; from whom all proceed; to whom all must return; whom we invoke to direct our understandings aright, in our progress towards his holy seat." The ancient comment. "What the sun and light are to this visible world, that are the supreme good and truth to the intellectual and invisible universe; and, as our corporeal eyes have a distinct perception of objects enlightened by the sun, thus our souls acquire certain knowledge by meditating on the light of truth, which emanates from the Being of beings; that is the light by which alone our minds can be directed in the path to blessedness." Sir Wm. Jones's works, vol. vi. p. 417. Sir William observes that the original word Bhargas, which he translates Godhead, consists of three consonants, and is derived from bha, to shine; ram, to delight; and gam, to move: - the Being who is the light, the source of happiness, and the all-pervading energy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
lighteth every man, &c.--rather, "which, coming into the world, enlighteneth every man"; or, is "the Light of the world" (Joh 9:5). "Coming into the world" is a superfluous and quite unusual description of "every man"; but it is of all descriptions of Christ amongst the most familiar, especially in the writings of this Evangelist (Joh 12:46; Joh 16:28; Joh 18:37; Jo1 4:9; Ti1 1:15, &c.).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That was the true light,.... Christ is that light, that famous and excellent light, the fountain of all light to all creatures; that gave light to the dark earth at first, and spoke light out of darkness; that light of all men in the earth, and of all the angels in heaven, and of all the saints below, and of all the glorified ones above: he is the true light, in distinction from typical lights; the "Urim" of the former dispensation; the candlestick, with the lamps of it; the pillar of fire which directed the Israelites by night in the wilderness; and from all the typical light there was in the institutions and sacrifices of the law; and in opposition to the law itself, which the Jews (z) magnify, and cry up as the light, saying, there is no light but the law; and in opposition to all false lights, as priests, diviners, and soothsayers among the Gentiles, Scribes, and Pharisees, and the learned Rabbins among the Jews, so much boasted of as the lights of the world; and to all false Christs and prophets that have risen, or shall rise, in the world, Which lighteth every man that cometh into the world: the sense is, either that every man that is enlightened in a spiritual manner, is enlightened by him, which is true of Christ, as the Son of God, existing from the beginning; but not in the Socinian sense, as if they were enlightened by his human ministry and example; for the Old Testament saints were not enlightened by his preaching; and many were enlightened by the ministry of John the Baptist; and multitudes afterwards, through the ministry of the apostles; and very few, comparatively, were enlightened under the ministry of Christ; and none we read of, in this sense, enlightened by him, when, and as soon as they came into, the world: or, the meaning is, that he is that light which lighteth all sorts of men; which is true in, a spiritual sense: some connect the phrase, "that cometh into the world", not with "every man", but with the "true light"; and the Arabic version so reads, and joins it to the following verse; but this reading is not so natural and the order of the words requires the common reading; nor is the difficulty removed hereby; for still it is every man that is enlightened: it is best therefore to understand these words of the light of nature, and reason, which Christ, as the word, and Creator and light of men, gives to every man that is born into the world; and which serves to detect the Quakers' notion of the light within, which every man has, and is no other than the light of a natural conscience; and shows how much men, even natural men, are obliged to Christ, and how great a person he is, and how deserving of praise, honour, and glory. The phrase, "every man that cometh into the world", is Jewish, and often to be met with in Rabbinical writings, and signifies all men that are born into the world; the instances are almost innumerable; take one or two: on those words in Job 25:3 on whom doth not his light arise? it is asked (a), who is he that cometh, , "of all that come into the world"; and says, the sun hath not lightened me by day, nor hath the moon lightened me by night! thou enlightenest those above, and those below, and "all that come into the world". Again, God is introduced thus speaking (b): "I am the God, , "of all that come into the world"; and I have not united my name, but to the people of Israel. Once more (c), "Moses, our master, from the mouth of power, (i.e. God; see Mat 26:64.) commanded to oblige, , "all that come into the world", to receive the commandments which were commanded the sons of Noah. (z) T. Bava Bathra, fol. 4. 1. (a) Vajikra Rabba, sect. 31. fol. 171. 4. (b) Midrash Ruth, c. l. v. 1. fol. 27. 3. (c) Maimon. Hilch. Melakim. c. 8. sect. 10. Vid. Misn. Roshhashana, c. l. sect. 2. T. Hieros. Sanhedrin, fol. 25. 4. & 26. 3. Sepher Bahir apud Zohar in Gen. fol. 30. 3. Tzeror Hammor, fol. 21. 2. & 22. 3. & 24. 3. & 27. 2. Caphter, fol. 56. 1. Jarchi in Exod. 15. 2.