1 John 2:8
“Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.”
Context: The book of 1 John was written by the apostle John, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. It was written to a group of early Christian believers to encourage them in their faith and address some issues within the community. The key themes of the book include love, obedience to God’s commandments, and the assurance of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
A New Commandment: John begins verse 8 by stating that he is writing a new commandment. This commandment is not entirely new in the sense that it had not been revealed before, but rather it is presented in a fresh way through Jesus. This new commandment is centered on love, as we see in John 13:34-35 when Jesus says, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have love one to another.”
True in Him and in You: John emphasizes that this new commandment is true both in Jesus and in the believers. Jesus perfectly exemplified love during His earthly ministry, and as His followers, we are called to imitate His love in our lives. This love is not merely a superficial emotion but is demonstrated through selfless actions and sacrificial love for others.
The Darkness is Past: John states that the darkness is past, referring to the darkness of sin and spiritual blindness that once enveloped humanity. Jesus, the true light, came into the world to dispel the darkness and bring salvation to mankind. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus overcame sin, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
The True Light Now Shineth: John affirms that the true light, which is Jesus, is now shining. Through the gospel message, the light of Christ illuminates the hearts and lives of believers. As we walk in the light of Christ, we experience His truth, guidance, and transforming power. This light not only reveals the truth but also exposes and dispels the works of darkness.
Application: As believers, this verse reminds us of the central importance of love in our Christian walk. We are called to love one another with the same self‑sacrificing love that Jesus demonstrated. This love should extend not only to fellow believers but also to those who do not yet know Christ. By loving others, we bear witness to our faith and reflect the true light of Christ in the world.
In conclusion, 1 John 2:8 underscores the significance of the new commandment to love one another, which is true in Jesus and in the lives of believers. Through Christ, the darkness of sin has been overcome, and His true light now shines, illuminating our lives and guiding us in love and righteousness.
