John 1:13

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Which {G3739} were born {G1080}, not {G3756} of {G1537} blood {G129}, nor {G3761} of {G1537} the will {G2307} of the flesh {G4561}, nor {G3761} of {G1537} the will {G2307} of man {G435}, but {G235} of {G1537} God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

not because of bloodline, physical impulse or human intention, but because of God.

Berean Standard Bible

children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 1:13 profoundly elucidates the supernatural origin of spiritual birth, clarifying that becoming a child of God is not a result of human lineage, carnal desire, or human decision, but solely a divine act. This verse, nestled within the Gospel's prologue, underscores the radical nature of salvation as a work initiated and accomplished by God, setting apart those who receive Christ from any earthly or human-driven means of identity or spiritual standing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** John 1:13 immediately follows [John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Receiving Christ and Becoming Children of God"), which declares that "as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." Verse 13 then serves as a crucial clarification, explaining *how* this spiritual sonship is achieved. It negates all human possibilities, whether physical, volitional, or familial, to emphasize the exclusive divine origin of this new birth. This clarification is vital to the prologue's overarching theme of the Word (Jesus) bringing light and life into the world, a light that enables a new kind of existence for those who believe, an existence not rooted in the old creation but in the new. The entire [prologue (John 1:1-18)](/john/1-1-18 "John 1:1-18 - The Prologue to John's Gospel") establishes the deity of Christ, His role in creation, His incarnation, and His mission to reveal God and grant salvation, with verse 13 specifically addressing the mechanism of entry into this new covenant relationship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Jewish society, lineage and physical descent from Abraham were paramount. Being a "son of Abraham" (e.g., [Matthew 3:9](/matthew/3-9 "Matthew 3:9 - Children of Abraham")) carried immense religious and social privilege, often implying a guaranteed place in God's covenant. John 1:13 directly challenges this deeply ingrained cultural understanding by asserting that spiritual sonship is not inherited through "blood" (physical ancestry or ethnicity). Furthermore, the phrase "will of the flesh" and "will of man" contrasts with the common understanding of procreation and human agency. The Gospel of John, written in a Hellenistic context, also engages with philosophical concepts like the Logos, yet grounds spiritual reality not in human wisdom or effort, but in a divine, supernatural act. This verse would have been revolutionary, dismantling ethnocentric and human-centric notions of salvation prevalent in the first century.

* **Key Themes:** The verse is central to several profound theological themes. The foremost is **Divine Birth (Regeneration)**, which posits that becoming a child of God is entirely a supernatural work of God, not a natural human process. This concept is foundational to understanding Christian salvation, signifying a radical spiritual transformation and a new life that originates from God Himself. Secondly, the verse highlights the **Exclusion of Human Effort or Merit**, meticulously negating three human sources: "not of blood" (physical lineage/ethnicity), "nor of the will of the flesh" (natural human desires or physical procreation), and "nor of the will of man" (human decision, planning, or the specific will of a human father). This triple negation emphatically removes any basis for human boasting or self-righteousness in salvation. Finally, it underscores the **Sovereignty of God in Salvation**, by concluding "but of God." This affirms that salvation is a divine initiative, a gift of grace, independent of human capability or merit, providing assurance that the believer's spiritual identity and standing are rooted securely in God's will and power. This truth resonates with Jesus' teaching on the necessity of being [born again in John 3](/john/3 "John 3 - Nicodemus and Being Born Again").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **born (Greek, _gennáō'_):** From G1080 (gennáō), meaning "to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate." This word is crucial as it refers to the act of giving birth, but here, in a spiritual sense, it denotes a new creation or regeneration. The passive voice ("were born") emphasizes that this is something done *to* them, not *by* them, highlighting the divine agency.
* **blood (Greek, _haîma'_):** From G129 (haîma), referring to "blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of Christ); by implication, bloodshed, also kindred." In this context, "blood" signifies physical lineage, ancestry, or inherited identity. The negation "not of blood" directly challenges the idea that spiritual standing can be passed down genetically or ethnically.
* **will (Greek, _thélēma'_):** From G2307 (thélēma), meaning "a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination." This word speaks to human desire, intention, or decision. Its repetition ("will of the flesh," "will of man") underscores the comprehensive exclusion of any human volition—whether carnal desire or reasoned human choice—in bringing about spiritual birth.
* **God (Greek, _theós'_):** From G2316 (theós), denoting "a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity." This final phrase, "but of God," stands in stark contrast to the preceding negations, unequivocally identifying the singular, divine source of this new spiritual life. It asserts that this birth is a direct act of the supreme God, making it entirely supernatural and sovereignly initiated.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Which were born":** This phrase refers back to "as many as received him" in the preceding verse, identifying those who have been given "power to become the sons of God." The passive voice of "were born" is critical, indicating that this birth is not something they initiated or achieved, but something that happened *to* them, highlighting the divine agency involved.
* **"not of blood":** This negates the idea that spiritual sonship is a matter of physical descent, race, or ethnicity. It directly refutes the Jewish notion that being a descendant of Abraham guaranteed a relationship with God, emphasizing that spiritual birth transcends biological lineage.
* **"nor of the will of the flesh":** This excludes human carnal desires, passions, or natural procreative power as the source of spiritual birth. It means that no amount of human physical longing or natural human capacity can produce this spiritual reality. It separates spiritual regeneration from mere human desire or biological processes.
* **"nor of the will of man":** This broadens the exclusion to encompass any human decision, planning, or male initiative in procreation. It denies that spiritual birth can be willed into existence by any human being, whether individually or collectively. This phrase covers human agency in its broadest sense, ensuring that no human effort or choice is seen as the originating cause.
* **"but of God":** This powerful contrasting statement unequivocally declares the sole source of this new birth. It is a direct, supernatural act of God. This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty, grace, and exclusive power in granting spiritual life and adoption into His family. It is a divine miracle, not a human achievement.

#### Literary Devices
The verse masterfully employs **Anaphora** and **Contrast** to drive home its central theological point. The repeated negation "not of... nor of... nor of..." (οὐκ ἐξ... οὐδὲ ἐκ... οὐδὲ ἐκ...) creates a strong rhythmic emphasis, meticulously eliminating every conceivable human source for spiritual birth. This **Repetition** builds anticipation for the ultimate revelation. The dramatic shift from these three negations to the single, affirmative "but of God" (ἀλλ᾽ ἐκ Θεοῦ) forms a profound **Contrast**. This literary device highlights the radical difference between human inability and divine omnipotence, underscoring that spiritual regeneration is exclusively a work of God's sovereign grace, distinct from any natural or human-driven process. The structure itself mirrors the theological truth: human efforts are futile, while God's power is absolute and singular in salvation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 1:13 is a foundational text for the doctrine of regeneration, asserting that spiritual life is not an inherited right, a product of human will, or a result of human effort, but solely a divine gift. This truth profoundly shapes our understanding of salvation as a work of God's sovereign grace, initiated by Him and bringing about a new spiritual identity in those who believe. It aligns with the broader biblical narrative of God's initiative in redemption, from His calling of Abraham to His covenant with Israel, culminating in the new covenant established through Christ. This divine origin of spiritual birth removes any basis for human boasting and places all glory squarely on God, fostering humility and profound gratitude in the believer.

* [John 3:5-8](/john/3-5-8 "John 3:5-8 - Jesus on Being Born Again by Water and Spirit"): Jesus's discourse with Nicodemus further expounds on the necessity of being "born again" or "born from above," clarifying that this spiritual birth is of the Spirit and is as mysterious yet real as the wind.
* [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith"): Paul articulates that salvation is "by grace through faith" and "not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast," echoing John's emphasis on divine initiative over human effort.
* [Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - The Washing of Regeneration"): This verse explicitly states that God "saved us, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost," directly linking salvation to a supernatural act of regeneration.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 1:13 offers profound implications for our understanding of salvation and our identity in Christ. It compels us to recognize that our spiritual standing is not rooted in our lineage, our personal desires, or our human achievements, but entirely in the gracious, sovereign act of God. This truth should cultivate deep humility within us, as it strips away any room for boasting in ourselves and directs all praise to the One who gives life. It also provides immense assurance: if our new birth is "of God," then its security rests not on our fluctuating performance or feelings, but on His unchanging will and power. For evangelism, this verse reminds us that while we faithfully proclaim the Gospel, true spiritual transformation is God's work, freeing us from the burden of "making" converts and empowering us to trust in His ability to draw and regenerate hearts. Our ultimate identity, therefore, is not found in our family name, our race, our social status, or even our personal aspirations, but in the glorious reality of being "born of God."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding that your spiritual birth is "of God" impact your sense of security and assurance in your faith?**
* **In what ways might we, consciously or unconsciously, still rely on "blood," "the will of the flesh," or "the will of man" for our spiritual standing or identity today?**
* **How does this verse shape your approach to evangelism and discipleship, knowing that true spiritual change is ultimately God's work?**
* **What practical steps can you take to live more fully in the humility and gratitude that flow from being "born of God"?**

### FAQ
**Does John 1:13 mean that human free will plays no part in salvation?**

Answer: John 1:13 focuses on the *origin* of spiritual birth, asserting that it is not initiated by human will or effort, but by God. This emphasizes God's sovereign grace and the supernatural nature of regeneration. However, it does not negate the human response of faith and reception, as highlighted in [John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Believing and Receiving Christ"). The Bible consistently presents a tension between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, where God graciously enables belief, and humans are called to respond in faith. John 1:13 clarifies that the *power* to become children of God, the very new birth itself, originates solely from God, making faith a divinely enabled response rather than a human-initiated work.

**What is the significance of "not of blood" in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "not of blood" directly challenges the ancient Jewish belief that spiritual privilege and a right relationship with God were inherited through physical lineage, specifically descent from Abraham. It means that being born into a particular family, ethnicity, or religious tradition does not automatically confer spiritual sonship. This emphasizes that salvation is not a matter of genetics or earthly heritage but a spiritual transformation available to all who believe, regardless of their background. It highlights the inclusive nature of God's family, which is formed by spiritual birth, not biological connection.

**If we are "born of God," does that mean we have no responsibility for our actions after conversion?**

Answer: Absolutely not. While John 1:13 emphasizes God's sovereign work in regeneration, being "born of God" also implies a new nature and a new capacity for obedience and righteousness. Other New Testament passages, such as [1 John 3:9](/1_john/3-9 "1 John 3:9 - Everyone Born of God Does Not Keep on Sinning"), indicate that those born of God will not continue in a lifestyle of sin, because God's seed remains in them. This new birth empowers believers to live a life pleasing to God, guided by the Holy Spirit. It is the beginning of a lifelong process of sanctification, where believers actively participate in growing in their faith and living out their new identity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 1:13, by declaring that spiritual birth is "of God" and not of human means, points profoundly to Jesus Christ as the singular mediator and enabler of this divine miracle. He is the "Word" (Logos) through whom all things were made, and it is through His incarnation, His life, His atoning death, and His resurrection that this new birth becomes possible. Jesus Himself, in His conversation with Nicodemus in [John 3](/john/3 "John 3 - Nicodemus and Being Born Again"), elaborates on the necessity of being "born again" or "born from above," explicitly connecting it to belief in the Son of Man who must be lifted up, just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness (cf. [John 3:14-15](/john/3-14-15 "John 3:14-15 - The Son of Man Lifted Up")). The "power to become the sons of God" mentioned in [John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Receiving Christ and Becoming Children of God") is precisely the power that Jesus, the incarnate God, bestows. He is the ultimate expression of God's will and the means by which humanity can be reconciled to God and receive this supernatural life. Our spiritual adoption as children of God, as described in passages like [Romans 8:14-17](/romans/8-14-17 "Romans 8:14-17 - Children of God and Heirs with Christ"), is made possible only through our union with Christ, who is the Son of God by nature. Thus, John 1:13 is a testament to the fact that salvation is entirely a work of God *in Christ*, demonstrating that true life and true sonship are found exclusively in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 John 3:9

Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.

James 1:18

Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

1 Peter 1:3

¶ 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,

John 3:5

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and [of] the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

John 3:8

The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

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.

1 John 2:28

¶ And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.