The three synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—give a chronological account of Christ’s life, mainly His third year of ministry. John’s Gospel takes a different approach, focusing on themes in His teachings. For example, Jesus’ declaration, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12; 9:5) is set in context at the beginning of John’s Gospel. There, John establishes darkness as the backdrop of Christ’s entrance into the world, declaring Him to be “the true Light which gives light to every man” (John 1:9).

John 1:9 then sets the stage for the most famous words of Jesus in chapter three: “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (verse 16). The light of the Gospel in Christ is available to “every man,” and to “whoever believes in Him.” And in Revelation 5 John saw the result of the true Light being embraced by a cross-section of humanity: “Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation” (verse 9). 

Are you one of the “whoever” who has believed in Him? Embrace the light of Christ in your life.

It is no advantage to be near.

Augustine