What Are Some Applications Of John 3:19-21?

What are some applications we can make from John 3:19-21? The passage reads “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.”

First the passage is not really talking about physical light (light from the sun). That is just what the analogy is being drawn from, for example, burglars usually like to do their work at nighttime where it is easier to avoid being seen.

The passage is really talking about the “light” of spiritual exposure. Just a few examples:

· If a gospel preacher isn’t willing to defend publicly what he preaches publicly (like in public debate – Acts 15:2,7, 17:1, 19:8-10), that’s usually a sign he knows deep down his position can’t be defended successfully when his teaching is rebutted. Just limiting himself to sermons avoids such risk.  Being willing to debate doesn’t mean you are right, but it usually mean you at least think you are right.

· If a Bible teacher (like some of the Pharisees of Jesus’ day) isn’t practicing what he/she is preaching (Matt 23:3), then they will tend to shy away from subjects or scenarios where that could be exposed.

· If a Bible teacher (like some of the Pharisees of Jesus’ day) is practicing their religion for the praise of men (Matt 23:5), then they will tend to avoid teaching on certain topics (like in gospel meetings) that might cause them to lose future speaking opportunities. The safest thing is just to not bring up controversial subjects (except maybe privately). That way you stay on the good side of everybody in the brotherhood (Luke 6:26). And that way you won’t be persecuted like those who are courageous in their preaching (Gal 6:12).

· If a man is cheating on his wife (I Cor 6:9-10), he won’t be open and above board with his wife about where he is spending some of his time. How could he be?

· If a man works remotely, but spends most of his time goofing off (Col 3:22-24), he is probably going to be nervous about accounting for (to his employer) what he is spending his time doing at work.

· If there is a church problem or disunity among Christians, some are afraid to meet with the other side in the dispute, lest their partiality or etc. be exposed. The command “endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” in Eph 4:3 demands it. Everybody in the work place knows if meeting to resolve differences was refused on the job, declining to meet would be cause for termination on the spot.

All false beliefs, teaching, practices, etc. don’t want to really come to the light where they might be exposed. And they will always hide behind some excuse not to – in order to “save face.”

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