Translations
Interlinear
Notes
In Him was life: Life was God’s original gift to his creatures at creation (Genesis 1:20–28; 2:7). Now the logos gives people the possibility of new life, which comes through rebirth from God (John 1:13). This means receiving new life from God, not a second physical birth. It describes a spiritual beginning in which God gives people new life through faith, making them his children
As one of his first creative acts, God brought light into the world (Genesis 1:3). In the re-creation of humankind through Jesus Christ, God offered light and life again. Light is a key theme throughout the Gospel of John.
God created light and removed the darkness (Genesis 1:2–5). The darkness resists God (John 3:19–21; 12:35; Matthew 6:23; Acts 26:17–18; Ephesians 4:17–19; 5:7–14; 2 Peter 1:19; 1 John 1:5–7; 2:9–11).
The start of this introduction might be a poem or hymn sung by early Christians (1:1–5).
The themes of this introduction of the Gospel of John prepare readers for the story that follows:
The arrival of the light in the world.
The rejection of the light.
The gift of new life given by the light to those who believed in him.
Darkness and Light God’s Word The Creation The Unknown God The Word
Parallels
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Cerinthus Incarnation Inspiration of the Bible Jesus Christ John, Gospel of Life Light Logos Messiah Morning Star Philo Judaeus Poetry, Biblical Stoicism, Stoics
Topics
Jesus, the Christ: Eternity of Jesus, the Christ: John's Testimony Concerning Him Light: Christ the Source of all Wisdom Light: Figurative and Symbolical Regeneration: General Scriptures Concerning The Excellency and Glory of Christ: As God The Excellency and Glory of Christ: As the True Light The Providence of God is Exercised in Ruling the Elements Types of Christ: Tree of Life Types of the Saviour: The Tree of Life Urim and Thummim: Illustrative of the Light and Perfection of Christ, the True Wisdom: Spiritual, from God