An Exegetical Study of John 8:12 With Special Attention Given to the Imagery of Light In The Old Testament as Its Background

Abstract

The thesis discusses the imagery of light used as a figure~ of salvation in the Old Testament and the relationship it has with John 8:12. This is presented in five chapters. Chapter one covers introductory materials, namely. the statement of the problem, the hY90thesis, significance of the study, the purpose of the study, assumptions. limitations and delimitations. Chapter two discusses the background and Old Testament use of the imagery of light. gives an overview of the significance o f the imagery OT light in the Old Testament ...and examines s elected Old Testament passages where light is used in the context of salvation. These include: t he creation of light(Gen 1:3,- 5), the plague of darkness (Ex 10:21-23) ..light in the Exodus Journey (Ex 13:21,22), light to Zebulon and Naphtali (Is 8:22-9:2), the promise of light to the Gentiles (Is 42:6; 49:6; 51:4). Cha9ter three is devoted to the Gospel of John, especially John 8:12. John's understanding of Jesus as the Light is discussed along with use of r ne imagery of light in relation to the person and ministry of Jesus. An overview of John's theological imagery of light is outlined. Discussed here also is John the concept of salvation and light in John1s presentation of Jesus. Chapter four is a synthesis of the significance of light as is used in the scriptural p assaqes already c considered . This section pulls together the Old Testament and John's usage of the imagery of light (as a symbol of salvation). Chapter five gives a summary of findings and conclusion of the thesis. The biblical and theological findings are summarized in this chapter. The relevance of this study in its application for the Church is outlined.