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“The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend [overcome] it.” John 1:5

It’s getting more obvious, the darkness and the light. The chasm between them is growing wider in our culture, nation, and world—making that gap harder and harder for people to straddle. In just the first few verses of John’s gospel, he introduces us to the concepts of light and dark. “Light” refers to holiness in people, the truth of God’s word, and the Word Himself (Jesus). “Darkness” connotes sin, corruption, and lies—and it’s also the preferred environment of Satan, whose purpose, along with his minions, is to keep the world and its people in darkness. The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:8 that before surrendering to the Lord, we ourselves were darkness, but are now light in the world. Jesus also tells us, point blank, that He is the Light of the world, and whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12). I could go on and on, but you can do a simple word study on “darkness” and “light” to further explore the concepts.

As we look around (and read the headlines), evil is afoot—the darkness is darkening. But that’s why John 1:5 is so very hopeful for believers! Interestingly, even between two of the most accurate Bible translations—the ESV and NASB—there is a discrepancy of translation that could at first be perplexing…but is actually quite glorious. The ESV says when the Light (Jesus) shines in the darkness, the darkness has not “overcome” it. This is awesome! We can proclaim, “Yes! In the resurrection of Jesus, He is victorious over sin and death—and darkness! As scary and evil as things may look now, He already won—so the light will win!” Despite more Christian persecution and murder around the world than ever before in history, and even the growing rage against the light (and Light) in our own country, Jesus has not been (and cannot be) overcome. For this, we can have peace, joy, and bold confidence in our faith.

Ah, but then there’s the NASB (which I, as an aside, personally prefer because this translation always capitalizes pronouns referring to God and Jesus—could be just the writer geek in me). Here, instead of “overcome,” the Greek word is translated “comprehend” (NASB1995) or “grasp”. Friend, doesn’t this concept stir up even more hope in your heart, mind, and spirit, especially as we look around us at the mounting madness? It’s as though John is reminding us, “As Jesus shines into this dark world, just remember that the darkness simply won’t get it.” Satan, the god of this world, promotes spiritual darkness and rebellion against God—keeping people from turning to the Light and attempting to stumble those walking in the Light. Yet as Jesus shows up on the scene through His people, the world responds with utter confusion, perplexed at what they see. They shake their heads, mock, attempt to destroy. We have clearly witnessed this over the past few weeks, as a revival of sorts has broken out in our own nation…as the Light shines brighter, the darkness looks on with disdainful incomprehension.

So, Christian, let these two concepts further embolden you! Speak Truth, Life, and Light into the darkness of your own world—your family, work, community. No matter the response or consequence. The darkness won’t win—it can’t! And, God willing, your words may usher someone from darkness to light, transforming their lives and changing the trajectory of their eternity! But if they scoff, rebuff, spit, or worse, know that they just don’t get it. They are blind, the walking dead. And never forget: we were once like them (Ephesians 2:1-10)…so let’s not ever give up.

“Lord, remind me daily that I am to be light in this dark world, to shine before others that they may turn to You. Embolden me to speak Jesus in the confidence that even though some may not comprehend, the Light wins.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life