This world is broken. It is full of darkness. However, when Jesus came into the world, he defeated the darkness. The problem is that it doesn't appear that the darkness is defeated. That's where His followers come in. He uses His people to push back the darkness in this world.

When Jesus made the statement that He was the light of the world, it was again a massive, blatant claim to be the Messiah that had been promised of old. In addition to that, His claim has very real consequences for us today as we navigate a world gone haywire.

John reveals to us that the Light (Jesus) came into the world, but the world rejected Him. In fact, even those who were looking for the promised Messiah didn't recognize Him. However, to those who believe in Him, He gives power to become the children of God. What a miracle!

In a somewhat surprising change of subject, the Apostle John suddenly introduces John the Baptist. In so doing, he gives us a glimpse into Jesus' plan for His followers: He's going to push back the darkness to reveal His grace.