1 Peter 1:23

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

Being born again {G313}, not {G3756} of {G1537} corruptible {G5349} seed {G4701}, but {G235} of incorruptible {G862}, by {G1223} the word {G3056} of God {G2316}, which liveth {G2198} and {G2532} abideth {G3306} for {G1519} ever {G165}.

You have been born again not from some seed that will decay, but from one that cannot decay, through the living Word of God that lasts forever.

For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.

having been begotten again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the word of God, which liveth and abideth.

Commentary

First Peter 1:23 profoundly articulates the nature and source of the believer's spiritual transformation, emphasizing that salvation is a divine work, not a human achievement.

Context

This verse comes as part of Peter's opening exhortation to believers scattered throughout Asia Minor, whom he addresses as "strangers" and "pilgrims." Having just described their salvation as the outcome of their faith and the purifying effect of obeying the truth, Peter now explains the very foundation of their new spiritual life. He contrasts their former perishable existence with the imperishable life they now possess through Christ, providing assurance and a call to holy living.

Key Themes

  • The New Birth (Regeneration): The phrase "born again" (Greek: anagennáō) signifies a spiritual rebirth, a radical transformation from spiritual death to life. It's not a mere reformation of character but a fundamental change of nature, initiated by God. This echoes Jesus' teaching on being born again to enter the kingdom of God.
  • Incorruptible Origin: Peter contrasts "corruptible seed" (referring to human, perishable lineage or earthly origins) with "incorruptible," highlighting that the new life in Christ is not derived from anything earthly or temporary. Its source is eternal and divine, ensuring its lasting quality and security.
  • The Power of God's Word: The "word of God" is presented as the instrument through which this new birth occurs. It is the living and abiding message of the Gospel that brings about spiritual life. This Word is inherently powerful and eternal, unlike anything human or transient. Peter emphasizes that this divine Word "liveth and abideth for ever," underscoring its enduring truth and efficacy, a concept also seen in Isaiah 40:8.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek term for "born again," anagennáō (ἀναγεννάω), literally means "to beget again" or "to be born anew." It emphasizes a complete spiritual renewal, distinguishing it from simply improving one's behavior. The contrast between phthartēs sporas (φθαρτῆς σπορᾶς), "corruptible seed," and aphthartou (ἀφθάρτου), "incorruptible," powerfully conveys the difference between human mortality and divine immortality as the source of life. The "word of God" (logos theou, λόγος θεοῦ) here refers to the preached Gospel, the divine message that carries life-giving power.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Peter 1:23 offers profound assurance. Our spiritual life is not dependent on our own strength or perishable efforts, but on the eternal, life-giving Word of God. This should lead to:

  • Confidence in Salvation: Because our new birth is from an incorruptible source, our salvation is secure and eternal.
  • Value of God's Word: The verse underscores the supreme importance of engaging with and obeying God's Word, as it is the very means by which we are born again and sustained in our spiritual walk.
  • Transformed Living: Understanding the divine, incorruptible nature of our new birth should inspire us to live lives that reflect this new reality, striving for holiness as Peter encourages throughout his epistle (e.g., 1 Peter 1:15).

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Cross-References

  • 1 Peter 1:3 (29 votes)

    ¶ Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

  • Hebrews 4:12 (20 votes)

    For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

  • John 3:3 (18 votes)

    Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

  • John 1:13 (17 votes)

    Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

  • John 6:63 (16 votes)

    It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, [they] are spirit, and [they] are life.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:53 (16 votes)

    For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal [must] put on immortality.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:54 (16 votes)

    So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.