John the Apostle
John 3:20ASV·traditional attribution

For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, and cometh not to the light, lest his works should be reproved.

Albert Barnes Presbyterian

Every wicked man hates the Gospel because it condemns his conduct and would enlighten his conscience. The Gospel's design is to reprove men, to convict them of sin; and sinners naturally flee it as a thief flees daylight. Only by acknowledging sin here can a man escape condemnation hereafter.

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John Gill Reformed Baptist

He who does what is true and right comes to the light, to Christ and His word, that his deeds may be tested and shown to be wrought by God's assistance. Without God's gracious working in us, we can do nothing; all right action flows from His will and aims at His glory.

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William Burkitt Anglican

Sin's nature is to hate the light that discovers and condemns it, as if the light itself were the enemy. But the gracious soul welcomes examination by God's Word, for his actions are performed in God's sight, according to His direction, with sincere aim at His glory. He fears no exposure because his deeds are wrought in God.

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