John 12:36
While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.
John 12:36: "While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them."
In John 12:36, Jesus urges belief while there is light, connecting belief to identity as “children of light.” The exhortation appears in a context where Jesus acknowledges the crowd’s mixed response to his ministry. The imagery of light signifies revelation and the opportunity to respond to God’s truth. The phrase “While ye have light” emphasizes the temporary window of opportunity before Jesus’ departure, which will bring spiritual darkness to those who do not believe. The subsequent clause, “that ye may be the children of light,” frames belief as participating in a new family—God’s people who live according to divine revelation and truth. Jesus’ action of departing and hiding himself intensifies the urgency; the disciples and early followers would need to rely on the Spirit after his departure (John 16-17). The verse thus bridges Jesus’ immediate ministry with the post-ascension life of the community.
Theologically, this verse anchors identity to belief in the light—faith resulting in a transformed way of life. “Children of light” contrasts with “children of darkness,” a recurring motif in John and in Pauline writings, signaling ethical and theological transformation. The act of Jesus’ departure also foreshadows a shift from an era of personal presence to one of Spirit-guided living. This invites believers to live as witnesses who reflect God’s truth in everyday settings, showing courage to stand in the light even when it costs them socially or socially regulated norms.
Practically, living as children of light means embracing integrity, compassion, and honesty in daily life. In the workplace, this could translate into fair dealing, transparency with colleagues, and choosing ethical shortcuts only after careful discernment. In family life, it means modeling forgiveness, gentleness, and steadfast truth-telling. For students and educators, it implies humility before truth, even when data or ideas challenge assumptions. It also calls for a posture of anticipation—living in light now while waiting for fuller revelation in the Spirit. Consider how your choices reflect your identity as a “child of light” in relationships, finances, and decisions about justice and mercy.
Cross-References: Ephesians 5:8-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4-6; Romans 13:12; Colossians 1:12