Jesus’ Epiphany in John’s Gospel
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness but have the light of life.” John 8:12
The word “epiphany” means, literally, to “shine upon.” During the Epiphany Season we consider how Jesus shone His light upon this sin-darkened world. John’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus as “light.” Our devotions this week will be based upon verses from that Gospel.
Jesus’ opening statement is bold… some might even say audacious! He claims, “I am the light of the world.” How can anyone make such a claim? No one other than Jesus can! John, earlier in his Gospel, explained the basis for Jesus’ statement. He began his Gospel: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1-3, 14) Jesus is that “Word!” He is “the only begotten” Son of God, who became a human being to dispel the darkness sin creates. Therefore, He can rightfully claim to be “the light of the world.”
Our present world is very dark! Thousands of lives are lost in wars. Millions of human beings are sold into slavery. Religious minorities in many countries are persecuted.
Jesus brings the light of His Father’s truths into this world and dispels darkness from the minds and hearts of all who “follow” Him. Jesus delivers His believing followers from the darkness of sin and bestows upon them “the light of life.” Jesus assures those who follow Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31-32) By God’s grace Jesus has shone upon us and freed us from darkness, enabling us to serve joyously within His kingdom of light and life!
Dear Jesus, thank You for being the light of the world—dispelling darkness and enlightening us with Your gospel of life! Amen.