The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.
This verse makes 3 important points:
- The Light which John bore witness to was the true light, not a false light (of which there have been many), nor a partial light (such as prophets like John himself). This is the light which enlightens men completely.
Have you ever been outside in the country, at night when it is so dark that you can’t see a thing, and suddenly a lightning bolt flashed, lighting up the entire landscape? For that moment, every detail of your surroundings were lit up and you could see everything. That is what the light of Christ is like when it penetrates our hearts. - The Light came to earth. The phrase “was coming into the world” does not refer to “every man” but to the Light Himself.
- The true light is for every man; there is nobody excluded. Jesus came to earth for YOU!