4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.

Other Translations of John 1:4

King James Version

4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

English Standard Version

4 In him was life,Or was not any thing made. That which has been made was life in him and the life was the light of men.

The Message

4 What came into existence was Life, and the Life was Light to live by.

New King James Version

4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.

New Living Translation

4 The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on John 1:4

Commentary on John 1:1-5

(Read John 1:1-5)

The plainest reason why the Son of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world. What the evangelist says of Christ proves that he is God. He asserts, His existence in the beginning; His coexistence with the Father. The Word was with God. All things were made by him, and not as an instrument. Without him was not any thing made that was made, from the highest angel to the meanest worm. This shows how well qualified he was for the work of our redemption and salvation. The light of reason, as well as the life of sense, is derived from him, and depends upon him. This eternal Word, this true Light shines, but the darkness comprehends it not. Let us pray without ceasing, that our eyes may be opened to behold this Light, that we may walk in it; and thus be made wise unto salvation, by faith in Jesus Christ.