John 1:21

KJV

And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} they asked {G2065} him {G846}, What {G5101} then {G3767}? Art {G1488} thou {G4771} Elias {G2243}? And {G2532} he saith {G3004}, I am {G1510} not {G3756}. Art {G1488} thou {G4771} that prophet {G4396}? And {G2532} he answered {G611}, No {G3756}.

Complete Jewish Bible

“Then who are you?” they asked him. “Are you Eliyahu?” “No, I am not,” he said. “Are you ‘the prophet,’ the one we’re expecting?” “No,” he replied.

Berean Standard Bible

“Then who are you?” they inquired. “Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.”

American Standard Version

And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elijah? And he saith, I am not. Art thou the prophet? And he answered, No.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 1:21 records a pivotal moment in the interrogation of John the Baptist by a delegation of priests and Levites from Jerusalem. Following his emphatic denial of being the Christ, the religious leaders press him further on his identity, specifically asking if he is Elijah or "that Prophet" foretold in the Old Testament. John's direct and unequivocal "I am not" and "No" serve to clarify his unique role as a forerunner, not the fulfillment of these specific messianic expectations, thereby redirecting attention away from himself and towards the one whose way he was preparing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** John 1:21 is a direct continuation of the interrogation begun in [John 1:19](/john/1-19 "John 1:19 - The Delegation to John") where "the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?" John's initial response in [John 1:20](/john/1-20 "John 1:20 - John's Confession") is a clear and powerful denial: "I am not the Christ." Having ruled out the Messiah, the delegation's subsequent questions in [John 1:21](/john/1-21 "John 1:21 - John's Further Denials") reflect the prevailing Jewish expectations of other significant figures prophesied to precede or accompany the Messiah. This immediate literary context establishes a pattern of inquiry and denial, setting the stage for John's self-identification as "the voice of one crying in the wilderness" in [John 1:23](/john/1-23 "John 1:23 - John's Self-Identification"). The narrative carefully builds suspense around the true identity of the one John is proclaiming, consistently pointing away from John himself and towards Jesus.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The questions posed to John in [John 1:21](/john/1-21 "John 1:21 - John's Further Denials") are deeply rooted in Jewish eschatological expectations. The prophecy of Elijah's return before the "great and dreadful day of the Lord" was prominent in [Malachi 4:5](/malachi/4-5 "Malachi 4:5 - Prophecy of Elijah's Return"), leading many to anticipate a literal reappearance of the prophet. Similarly, the expectation of "that prophet" stemmed from [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses"), where Moses foretold that God would raise up a prophet like himself. These figures were widely believed to be heralds or companions of the Messiah. The delegation from Jerusalem, representing the religious establishment (likely the Sanhedrin), was concerned with maintaining order and discerning the legitimacy of new religious movements. Their interrogation of John was not merely academic but an official inquiry into his authority and claims, given the significant public attention his baptismal ministry was attracting.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the Gospel of John and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Jewish Messianic Expectations**, demonstrating the specific figures the Jewish people anticipated would appear before or with the Messiah, particularly Elijah and the Prophet like Moses. Secondly, it underscores **John's Humility and True Identity**. Despite being a highly influential figure, John consistently deflects glory and refuses to claim titles that are not his, even those that might seem to align with his prophetic ministry. His consistent denials in [John 1:20-21](/john/1-20-21 "John 1:20-21 - John's Denials") serve to clarify his role as a precursor, preparing the way for the true Messiah. This theme is further emphasized when Jesus himself later clarifies John's relationship to Elijah in [Matthew 11:14](/matthew/11-14 "Matthew 11:14 - Jesus on John as Elijah") and [Luke 1:17](/luke/1-17 "Luke 1:17 - John in the Spirit of Elijah"). Finally, the passage contributes to the theme of **Preparation for the Messiah**, as John's denials pave the way for his ultimate declaration in [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Behold the Lamb of God"), where he identifies Jesus as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Elias (Greek, _Hēlías'_):** This is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Elijah (אֵלִיָּה). The question "Art thou Elias?" directly references the widespread Jewish expectation, based on [Malachi 4:5](/malachi/4-5 "Malachi 4:5 - Prophecy of Elijah's Return"), that the prophet Elijah would return before the coming of the Messiah. John's direct denial here is crucial, indicating he is not the literal, resurrected Elijah, though he fulfills the prophetic role in spirit and power.
* **prophet (Greek, _prophḗtēs'_):** This term refers to a "foreteller" or an "inspired speaker." In this context, "that prophet" (with the definite article) specifically points to the prophecy in [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses") concerning a prophet whom God would raise up "like unto Moses." This was another highly anticipated figure in Jewish eschatology, believed to precede or accompany the Messiah. John's denial here further narrows down his identity, affirming he is not this particular figure.
* **answered (Greek, _apokrínomai'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to conclude for oneself" or "to respond," this verb indicates John's deliberate and authoritative reply. It signifies not just a simple reply, but a considered and definitive statement, underscoring the finality and clarity of his denials. His answers are not hesitant but firm, demonstrating his clear understanding of his own identity and mission.
* **not (Greek, _ou'_):** This is the absolute negative adverb. John's use of "I am not" (οὐκ εἰμί) and simply "No" (οὔ) emphasizes the categorical nature of his denials. There is no ambiguity or equivocation; he is definitively stating that he does not embody the literal identities of Elijah or "that prophet" as the delegation understood them. This absolute negation serves to clear the ground for the true identity of the Messiah.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they asked him, What then?"**: This clause follows John's clear denial of being the Christ in [John 1:20](/john/1-20 "John 1:20 - John's Confession"). The interrogators, having eliminated the primary possibility, now pivot to other highly anticipated figures in Jewish eschatology. The "What then?" indicates their persistence and desire to categorize John within their existing prophetic frameworks, reflecting the urgency of their mission from Jerusalem.
* **"Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not."**: The delegation directly poses the question of whether John is Elijah, a figure whose return was prophesied in [Malachi 4:5](/malachi/4-5 "Malachi 4:5 - Prophecy of Elijah's Return"). John's response, "I am not" (οὐκ εἰμί), is a firm and unambiguous denial. While Jesus later clarifies that John came in the "spirit and power of Elijah" ([Luke 1:17](/luke/1-17 "Luke 1:17 - John in the Spirit of Elijah")) and was indeed the Elijah who was to come ([Matthew 11:14](/matthew/11-14 "Matthew 11:14 - Jesus on John as Elijah")), John's denial here is crucial. It asserts that he is not the literal, resurrected Elijah, preventing any misunderstanding that might elevate him to a status that would overshadow the true Messiah.
* **"Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No."**: Following the denial of being Elijah, the delegation asks if he is "that prophet," referring to the prophet like Moses foretold in [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses"). This figure was also highly anticipated as a forerunner or companion to the Messiah. John's concise and definitive "No" (οὔ) further solidifies his humble stance. By denying both these prominent identities, John systematically dismantles the delegation's attempts to fit him into their preconceived categories, clearing the way for his true, unique role as the voice preparing the way for the Lord, as he states in [John 1:23](/john/1-23 "John 1:23 - John's Self-Identification").

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective literary devices. **Interrogation** is central, as the entire interaction is framed as a series of questions posed by the Jewish delegation, reflecting their urgent need to understand John's identity and authority. This creates a sense of tension and anticipation. **Repetition** is also evident in John's consistent denials ("I am not," "No"). This repeated negation emphasizes his unwavering humility and his clear understanding of his own role, preventing any ambiguity about his identity. Furthermore, there is an element of **Foreshadowing**, as John's denials, while seemingly absolute, subtly set up Jesus' later clarification regarding John's fulfillment of the Elijah prophecy in a spiritual sense. Finally, the passage utilizes **Contrast** between the expectations of the religious leaders and John's humble self-identification, highlighting the difference between human assumptions and divine calling.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John's emphatic denials in [John 1:21](/john/1-21 "John 1:21 - John's Further Denials") are not merely a matter of personal humility but carry profound theological weight. By refusing to claim the titles of Elijah or "that Prophet," John reinforces the singularity of Christ's identity and the unique nature of his own preparatory ministry. He ensures that all attention remains fixed on the one who is to come, preventing any human figure from eclipsing the Messiah. This act of self-effacement is a powerful theological statement about the nature of true servanthood and the importance of pointing beyond oneself to God's ultimate revelation. John's denials also highlight the distinction between literal fulfillment of prophecy and spiritual fulfillment, as Jesus later affirms John's role as the spiritual Elijah. This passage thus serves as a theological anchor, clarifying roles and redirecting focus to the central figure of salvation history.

* [Malachi 4:5](/malachi/4-5 "Malachi 4:5 - Prophecy of Elijah's Return")
* [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses")
* [Matthew 11:14](/matthew/11-14 "Matthew 11:14 - Jesus on John as Elijah")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John the Baptist's unwavering clarity and humility in [John 1:21](/john/1-21 "John 1:21 - John's Further Denials") offer a profound model for believers today. In a world that often pressures us to adopt identities or roles that are not truly ours, John's example teaches us the freedom and power that come from embracing our God-given purpose without seeking personal glory or validation. His consistent pointing away from himself and towards Jesus reminds us that our ultimate calling is to glorify Christ, not ourselves. This passage challenges us to discern our unique place in God's kingdom, to be content with the role He has assigned, and to faithfully prepare the way for His presence and work in our spheres of influence. It encourages us to cultivate a spirit of humility, ensuring that our lives consistently direct others to the true source of hope and salvation, Jesus Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I be tempted to claim titles or roles that are not truly mine, either in my spiritual life or in my daily interactions?**
* **How can John's example of humility help me to better understand and embrace my unique calling from God, rather than seeking external validation?**
* **Am I consistently pointing others to Jesus, or do my actions and words inadvertently draw attention to myself?**
* **What does it mean for me to "prepare the way for the Lord" in my specific context, following John's example?**

### FAQ

**Why did John deny being Elijah if Jesus later said he was?**

Answer: John's denial in [John 1:21](/john/1-21 "John 1:21 - John's Further Denials") should be understood in light of the specific expectation of the Jewish delegation. They were likely anticipating a literal, bodily return of the prophet Elijah, perhaps even a resurrection. John, being a new person born of Zacharias and Elizabeth, rightly denied being that literal, resurrected Elijah. However, Jesus later clarified that John fulfilled the prophecy of Elijah in a spiritual sense, coming "in the spirit and power of Elias" ([Luke 1:17](/luke/1-17 "Luke 1:17 - John in the Spirit of Elijah")) and being the "Elias, which was for to come" ([Matthew 11:14](/matthew/11-14 "Matthew 11:14 - Jesus on John as Elijah")). John's denial thus prevents misunderstanding about his physical identity while Jesus' affirmation reveals his prophetic fulfillment.

**Who was "that prophet" the delegation was asking about?**

Answer: "That prophet" refers to the specific prophecy in [Deuteronomy 18:15](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - The Prophet Like Moses"), where Moses declared, "The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken." This prophecy was widely understood by the Jews to refer to a great prophet who would arise before or with the Messiah, similar to Moses in his authority and miraculous signs. John's denial of being "that prophet" further clarifies that he is not the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy, but rather a forerunner to the one who truly is the ultimate Prophet, Jesus Christ, who is indeed "like Moses" but infinitely greater.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John the Baptist's emphatic denials in [John 1:21](/john/1-21 "John 1:21 - John's Further Denials") serve as a powerful Christ-centered fulfillment, not in what John *is*, but in what he *is not*, thereby directing all attention to the true Messiah. By refusing to claim the titles of Elijah or "that Prophet," John meticulously clears the stage for Jesus. He ensures that no human figure, however significant, could be mistaken for the long-awaited Christ. This self-effacing posture magnifies Jesus' unique identity as the ultimate fulfillment of all Old Testament prophecies. John's ministry, culminating in his pointing to Jesus as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), perfectly illustrates the principle that all prophetic activity and preparatory work ultimately find their purpose and meaning in Christ. Jesus is the [Prophet like Moses](/acts/3-22 "Acts 3:22 - Peter on Jesus as the Prophet") to whom all must listen, the [Son of Man](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - Jesus, the Son of Man") who came to give His life as a ransom, and the [Messiah](/john/4-25-26 "John 4:25-26 - Jesus Reveals Himself as Messiah") who fulfills every expectation. John's denials, therefore, are a testament to the singular supremacy of Jesus Christ, the one to whom all Scripture bears witness and in whom all God's promises are [Yes and Amen](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises in Christ").

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

Malachi 4:5

Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD:

Deuteronomy 18:15

¶ The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;

Deuteronomy 18:18

I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.

Matthew 11:14

And if ye will receive [it], this is Elias, which was for to come.

John 1:25

And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

Matthew 16:14

And they said, Some [say that thou art] John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.

Matthew 17:10

And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come?