King James Version
John 3:19 in the King James Version says “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their...” — study this verse from John chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.”
John 3:19 · King James Version
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
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. reproved: or, discovered
But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 4 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“the condemnation”
G2920decision (subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension, a tribunal; by implication, justice (especially, divine law)
“light”
G5457luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)
“is come”
G2064to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
“into”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
“the world”
G2889orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“light”
G5457luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)
“because”
G1063properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
“evil”
G4190hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455
“their”
G846the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
John 3:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to John 3:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge