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John 3:20
ESV For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.
NIV Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.
NASB For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light, so that his deeds will not be exposed.
CSB For everyone who does evil hates the light and avoids it, so that his deeds may not be exposed.
NLT All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed.
KJV For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
NKJV For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.

What does John 3:20 mean?

Light is an important symbol in the Bible. Jesus is described as "the Light" in several passages (John 1:9, 19). Light reveals things, and some of what it uncovers we would rather keep a secret. Those who commit sin would prefer that sin stay hidden, and not be exposed.

The Greek term here translated as "evil," or "wicked," is phaula, which also means "worthless," "base," or "no good." A life without God may seem satisfying for a while (Hebrews 11:25). But it's ultimately hopeless, worthless, and ends in disaster (Mark 8:36; Proverbs 8:35–36). This is not just a Christian opinion. Many atheists grudgingly subscribe to this idea, as well. They seek ways to avoid living as though life has no meaning but recognize that without God there is no sensible purpose to life. To live a life of purpose, rationally, a person must believe in purpose.
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