Where Does the Bible Say "God Said Let There Be Light"?
- Melissa Henderson Contributing Writer
- Updated May 03, 2023
As daylight turns into darkness, I seek spiritual and physical rest. The neighborhood becomes quiet. Tree frogs croaking and barn owls hooting replace laughter and talking. Hours, minutes, and seconds pass. Sleep replaces play and work. Soon, the night sky fades, and dawn arises. The light of day erases the dark of night. Another opportunity is here to share the love of Christ. When was the first light? Scripture tells that God created the light. The earth was formless and empty, filled with darkness. And God said, “Let there be light, and there was light” (Genesis 1:3 NIV).
God spoke, and he created the light. His words brought forth the light. From darkness to light, the words of God began creation. God is the Creator.
When Did God Say “Let There Be Light?”
The Word of God is everlasting. The Bible was written so we may know Him more intimately and strengthen our relationship with the Father. From the first pages of Genesis, we learn how God worked for seven days, creating as He desired. Some scholars believe Moses wrote the book of Genesis, while others believe there were numerous authors. Either way, the Bible is filled with details of God’s creations. His attention to detail reminds us of God’s love.
The first words of the Bible are found in Genesis 1:1. “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
We see more details of creation as we continue to read Scripture:
“Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. “God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.” (Genesis 1:2-5 NIV)
As Matthew Henry puts it, “In these verses, we have the work of creation in its epitome and in its embryo.”
God said, “Let there be light, and there was light.” on the first day. Notice that light was created before humans. “And God saw the light was good: and God separated the light from the darkness.” (Genesis 1:4 NIV) The light was created first. We need the light of Christ to live for Him. Everything God created was good. Sin had not entered the picture yet.
God was, is, and always shall be. According to Scripture, when God decided to create, He was meticulous in each detail. God worked for six days, and then He rested. The seventh day was His Sabbath. God created the light by saying, “Let there be light, and there was light.” His Words can bring something from nothing. God has the ability and power needed.
What is the Context of Genesis 1:3?
We use written and spoken words and actions to express our thoughts and opinions. God spoke, and creation began. At times, we may be at a loss for words. Have you ever wanted to express an idea and couldn’t find the words? Scripture never mentions God having an issue with deciding how to proceed. He spoke, and the world began. God’s Word shows the power and ability of the Father and what He can do. When God decided, He spoke and created.
Light was necessary for many plants to grow and for land to flourish. The words in Scripture “And God said…” show God’s almighty and supreme power.
God created for six days, and on the seventh day, He rested. During the first three days, God created day and night, sky and sea, land and plants.
What Else Does the Bible Say about Light?
Scripture tells that Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning, he went to the temple and preached to the people. A woman accused of adultery was brought to Jesus. The people were ready to stone her. Jesus said if anyone was without sin, they could cast the first stone. No one remained. The accusers left, and Jesus told the woman to go and sin no more.
After this event, John records that Jesus spoke to the people:
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 NIV)
Have you encountered someone who had the light of Jesus? Perhaps that person was filled with joy while sharing about the Lord. Has anyone ever said they see the light of Christ in you?
When you think of light today, does Jesus enter your thoughts? The Bible has numerous verses about light. “Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” (Psalm 119:105 NIV) Can you imagine walking a dark path without a flashlight or candle to guide you along the way? Jesus is the light we all need. He will guide our paths when we seek Him.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14 NIV)
I have a friend with impaired vision. There are times when she can only see light or dark. Other times she can see shapes. Her compromised eyesight doesn’t keep her from shining the light of Jesus with her words and actions. I pray I will shine His light in every moment.
Why Did Jesus Say, “I Am the Light of the World”?
When Jesus spoke and said, “I am the light of the world.”, He was not talking about a lighted candle or battery-operated lantern. Jesus was declaring the significance of Him being the source of spiritual light. There is no other way to the Father. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. (John 14:6 NIV)
As believers, we know that even when failure and sin invade our lives, we can go to the Father and find His light. We are not left alone to deal with our mistakes.
The light of the world is always with us. We are called to shine His light on others in hopes of sharing the good news of Christ.
Jesus came so the blind would see. Jesus healed people of physical blindness and also, spiritual blindness.
When Jesus told the people that He was the light of the world, He was sharing that the love and light of God would shine through Him.
How Can We Share Jesus’ Light?
Songs learned in Sunday School often mention little lights shining and how His light won’t be hidden. Popular songs on Christian radio speak words of His light being shared through words and actions. When we are kind to others, we share the light of Christ. A smile, a hug, a note in the mail, a conversation with a friend or stranger, and sharing the Word of God are important ways to show His love and light.
“And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.” (Genesis 1:3 NIV)
A Prayer For Remembering Jesus Is Our Light
Father,
Thank You for Your creations. Help us to shine Your love and light in every moment. When we feel weary, remind us of Your love and mercy. When we are joyful, remind us of the many ways You give us joy every day. God, may we always show Your love and light.
Amen.
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/koyu
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
This article is part of our larger resource library of popular Bible verse phrases and quotes. We want to provide easy to read articles that answer your questions about the meaning, origin, and history of specific verses within Scripture's context. It is our hope that these will help you better understand the meaning and purpose of God's Word in relation to your life today.
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