John 1:13
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Which were born, not of blood - Who were regenerated, ουκ εξ αἱματων, not of bloods - the union of father and mother, or of a distinguished or illustrious ancestry; for the Hebrew language makes use of the plural to point out the dignity or excellence of a thing: and probably by this the evangelist intended to show his countrymen, that having Abraham and Sarah for their parents would not entitle them to the blessings of the new covenant; as no man could lay claim to them, but in consequence of being born of God; therefore, neither the will of the flesh - any thing that the corrupt heart of man could purpose or determine in its own behalf; nor the will of man - any thing that another may be disposed to do in our behalf, can avail here; this new birth must come through the will of God - through; his own unlimited power and boundless mercy, prescribing salvation by Christ Jesus alone. It has been already observed that the Jews required circumcision, baptism, and sacrifice, in order to make a proselyte. They allow that the Israelites had in Egypt cast off circumcision, and were consequently out of the covenant; but at length they were circumcised, and they mingled the blood of circumcision with the blood of the paschal lamb, and from this union of bloods they were again made the children of God. See Lightfoot. This was the only way by which the Jews could be made the sons of God; but the evangelist shows them that, under the Gospel dispensation, no person could become a child of God, but by being spiritually regenerated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Which were born--a sonship therefore not of mere title and privilege, but of nature, the soul being made conscious of the vital capacities, perceptions, and emotions of a child of God, before unknown. not of blood, &c.--not of superior human descent, not of human generation at all, not of man in any manner of way. By this elaborate threefold denial of the human source of this sonship, immense force is given to what follows, but of God--Right royal gift, and He who confers must be absolutely divine. For who would not worship Him who can bring him into the family, and evoke within him the very life, of the sons of God?
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which were born not of blood,.... Or bloods, in the plural number. The birth, here spoken of, is regeneration, expressed by a being born again, or from above; by a being quickened by the Spirit and grace of God; by Christ being formed in men; and by a partaking of the divine nature; and by being made new creatures, as all that believe in the name of Christ are; and which is the evidence of their being the sons of God: and now this is owing not to blood, or bloods; not to the blood of circumcision; or of the passover, which the Jews had an high opinion of, and ascribe life and salvation to, and to which notion this may be opposed: so their commentators (f) on Eze 16:6 where the word "live" is twice used, observe on the first "live", by the blood of the passover, on the second "live", by the blood of circumcision; but, alas! these contribute nothing to the life of the new creature: nor is regeneration owing to the blood of ancestors, to natural descent, as from Abraham, which the Jews valued themselves upon; for sin, and not grace, is conveyed by natural generation: all men are of one blood, and that is tainted with sin, and therefore can never have any influence on regeneration; no blood is to be valued, or any one upon it, but the blood of Christ, which cleanses from all sin, Nor of the will of the flesh; man's free will, which is carnal and corrupt, is enmity to God, and impotent to every thing that is spiritually good: regeneration is ascribed to another will and power, even to the will and power of God, and denied of this: nor of the will of man: of the best of men, as Abraham, David, and others; who, though ever so willing and desirous, that their children, relations, friends, and servants, should be born again, be partakers of the grace of God, and live in his sight, yet cannot effect any thing of this kind: all that they can do is to pray for them, give advice, and bring them under the means of grace; but all is ineffectual without a divine energy. So with the Jews, "a man", signifies a great man, in opposition to "Adam", or "Enosh", which signify a mean, weak, frail man; and our translators have observed this distinction, in Isa 2:9 and the mean man (Adam) boweth down, and the great man (Ish) "humbleth himself": on which Jarchi has this note, "Adam boweth down", i.e. little men; "and a man humbleth himself", i.e. princes, and mighty men, men of power: and so Kimchi on Psa 4:2. "O ye sons of men", observes, that the Psalmist calls them the sons of men, with respect to the great men of Israel; for there were with Absalom the sons of great men. Though sometimes the Jews say (g), Adam is greater than any of the names of men, as Geber, Enosh, Ish. But now our evangelist observes, let a man be ever so great, or good, or eminent, for gifts and grace, he cannot communicate grace to another, or to whom he will; none are born again of any such will: but of God; of God, the Father of Christ, who begets to a lively hope; and of the Son, who quickens whom he will; and of the grace of the Spirit, to whom regeneration is generally ascribed, (f) Jarchi & Kimchi in loc. Shemot Rabba, sect. 19. fol. 103. 2. & 104. 4. & Mattanot Cehuna in Vajikra Rabba, sect. 23. fol. 164. 2. Zohar in Lev. fol. 39. 2. (g) Zohar in Lev. fol. 20. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:13 a birth that comes from God: People can escape the darkness only by God’s grace (8:12; 12:35-36, 44-46).
John 1:13
The Witness of John
12But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—13children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Way to Overcome
By Smith Wigglesworth6.5K07:10Audio BooksLUK 21:15JHN 1:13HEB 2:10HEB 13:81JN 4:41JN 5:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith in Jesus. He highlights that those who believe in Jesus are definite in their faith and can trust that what they believe will come to pass. The preacher also emphasizes that God is rich to all who call upon Him and that there is no limit to His power. He encourages believers to put their trust in God and pray for their loved ones and coworkers, so that many may come to know Jesus. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that faith in Jesus is the key to overcoming the world and that love, mercy, and grace are bound eternally to faith.
According to God's Will
By Erlo Stegen2.3K57:58God's WillMAT 6:33MAT 7:21JHN 1:13ROM 8:14JAS 1:221JN 2:17REV 20:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a woman who fervently prayed for a husband. The speaker emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation in life, both spiritually and in relationships. They caution against following the will of lust and carnal desires, using the example of a cousin who wanted to marry multiple husbands. The speaker also warns against disobedience to God's will, highlighting the consequences that can arise from turning away from Him. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to turn back to God and obey His will.
How to Stop the Forces of Satan
By Leonard Ravenhill1.4K35:07Satan2CH 7:14MAL 3:1JHN 1:13JHN 2:13JHN 3:30ROM 9:2JUD 1:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of prayer and shares examples of powerful prayer meetings throughout history. He mentions the event of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in the upper room. He also highlights a remarkable prayer meeting that lasted for 100 years in Handhut, Germany, starting in 1727. The preacher emphasizes the need for persistent and fervent prayer, drawing inspiration from the story of Hannah in the Bible who prayed for a child.
Gift of Eternal Life
By Rolfe Barnard1.3K19:51Eternal LifeJHN 1:13JHN 17:1JHN 17:3ROM 6:232CO 1:20EPH 2:10PHP 2:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the threefold work of God in salvation, which is described in the teachings of the apostle Paul. He explains that salvation is a process that occurs in three different tenses: past, present, and future. The preacher emphasizes that the ultimate goal of salvation is for believers to be transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ. He also highlights the concept of eternal life as a gift from God to sinful humanity, as described in the book of John.
The French Reformer John Calvin
By Ian Paisley1.2K31:20MAT 6:33JHN 1:132CO 6:17HEB 10:12HEB 12:2REV 3:20REV 6:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life and teachings of John Calvin, a reformer who sought to spread the gospel of Christ. Calvin initially believed he could reform the Roman church, but upon careful study, he realized it was filled with apostasy and idolatry. He then gave four reasons why he had to separate from the Roman church. The preacher also highlights Calvin's emphasis on the doctrine of election, where God takes the initiative in saving sinners. Additionally, Calvin endured persecution and remained steadfast in his faith.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
The Way to Overcome: Believe
By Smith Wigglesworth0FaithOvercoming UnbeliefLUK 24:27JHN 1:13JHN 14:6GAL 3:29HEB 13:81JN 2:151JN 4:41JN 4:171JN 5:4Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes that the greatest weakness in the world is unbelief, while the greatest power comes from faith that works through love. He asserts that love, mercy, and grace are eternally linked to faith, and that true believers, who recognize Jesus as the Son of God, will overcome the world. The sermon highlights that faith dispels fear and that all promises of God are accessible to those who believe. Wigglesworth encourages believers to maintain a strong relationship with God, as this fidelity leads to overcoming worldly challenges and fulfilling God's commandments. Ultimately, he reminds us that through faith, we are heirs to God's promises and can confidently face the trials of life.
Evening Thoughts - February
By Octavius Winslow0Living Under God's Watchful EyeHope in AfflictionPSA 33:18PSA 119:50SNG 4:6ISA 35:8JHN 1:13JHN 3:16ROM 6:4GAL 6:4PHP 1:29COL 1:22Octavius Winslow emphasizes the importance of living under the watchful eye of God, who tenderly invites us to return to Him despite our wanderings. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with Christ, especially in times of affliction, as it is through trials that our faith is strengthened and our spiritual lives revived. Winslow reminds us that the ultimate hope lies in the promise of eternal glory, where all sorrow and sin will cease, and we will be fully satisfied in God's likeness. He calls for self-examination and a commitment to spiritual growth, urging believers to rely on God's grace and the power of prayer in their daily walk with Him.
1 Peter 1:23
By John Gill0New BirthSpiritual FamilyISA 40:8JHN 1:13JHN 3:5JHN 12:34ROM 10:172CO 5:17GAL 6:15EPH 2:11PE 1:31PE 1:25John Gill emphasizes the transformative power of being born again through God's mercy, highlighting that believers are regenerated not by corruptible seed but by the incorruptible seed of God's Word. This new birth establishes a spiritual family among believers, urging them to love one another as they share the same Father and inheritance. Gill explains that this regeneration is facilitated by the Holy Spirit and the living Word of God, which remains effective and eternal. He contrasts the corrupt nature of the first birth with the purity of the new birth, underscoring the importance of the Gospel in sustaining spiritual life. Ultimately, believers are called to live in accordance with their new identity as children of God.
The Blessing Divine
By Octavius Winslow0Reliance on the Holy SpiritDivine PowerZEC 4:6JHN 1:13ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 3:162CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 2:8PHP 1:61TH 5:19Octavius Winslow emphasizes that the work of the Church and the process of conversion are entirely dependent on the Divine blessing and the Spirit of God, rather than human effort. He illustrates that just as the Temple represents the Church and Zerubbabel symbolizes Christ, the transformation of a soul is a supernatural act of God, showcasing His immense power and love. Winslow encourages believers to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in their spiritual journey, asserting that true success in ministry comes from leaning on God's Spirit rather than human might. He calls for a deep acknowledgment of the Spirit's work in our lives, urging believers to seek holiness and to honor the Spirit to experience the fullness of God's grace. Ultimately, the message is clear: all spiritual endeavors must be rooted in the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Church - Its Nature, Principles and Vocation
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spirituality vs. MysticismNature of the ChurchJHN 1:13JHN 3:6JHN 4:20ACT 7:38ROM 11:25GAL 1:16EPH 1:17EPH 3:10EPH 6:12HEB 8:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the Church as a significant battleground in history, highlighting the various perspectives on its nature and local expressions. He discusses the challenges faced by the Church, including the belief in its ruin and the need for a return to New Testament principles. Sparks argues that true local expressions of the Church are possible through a spiritual revelation of Christ, which is essential for understanding its true nature. He contrasts spirituality with mysticism, asserting that genuine spirituality arises from a new birth by the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the Church as the embodiment of the mystery of Christ, which is revealed to believers through divine illumination.
Churches and Workers
By T. Austin-Sparks0Presence of ChristSpiritual LeadershipMAT 18:20JHN 1:13ACT 6:3ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 5:22EPH 4:111TI 3:11PE 2:9REV 2:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the early church was governed by the Holy Spirit, who was responsible for the divine purpose and the formation of the church, rather than human effort or organization. He warns against the tendency of man to impose his own ideas and methods, which can lead to disastrous consequences, and stresses that the true essence of a church is the presence of Christ among its members. Sparks highlights that church leaders should be spiritually qualified individuals, filled with the Holy Spirit, rather than chosen based on worldly criteria. He calls for a return to the original principles of church formation and leadership, which are rooted in the life and presence of Christ. Ultimately, the sermon serves as a reminder that the church's vitality depends on its alignment with the Holy Spirit and the embodiment of Christ.
The Spiritual Basis of the Christian Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual FoundationThe Role of the Holy SpiritJHN 1:13JHN 3:6ACT 2:41ROM 8:91CO 2:14GAL 5:251TI 1:181TI 6:202TI 1:62TI 2:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical need for Christians to recognize the spiritual foundation of their faith, warning against the tendency to slip into a mere formalism that lacks true spiritual vitality. He highlights Paul's letters to Timothy as a call to remember the original anointing and the essential role of the Holy Spirit in the Christian life. Sparks urges believers to understand the distinction between the natural and the spiritual, asserting that true spirituality is a fundamental change in one's being, enabled by the Holy Spirit. He points to the Gospel of John as a reminder of the necessity of being born of the Spirit to grasp the deeper truths of Christianity. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the sovereignty of the Spirit in the life of the Church, emphasizing that all growth and understanding must come from the Holy Spirit's work within us.
What Is the Church, and What Are the Churches?
By T. Austin-Sparks0Revelation of ChristNature of the ChurchJHN 1:13ACT 20:27EPH 1:17HEB 12:26T. Austin-Sparks addresses the essential nature of the Church, emphasizing that it is not a mechanical system to be replicated but a living expression of Christ. He highlights the dissatisfaction among believers due to the poor state of many churches and the need for a deeper understanding of the Church's true vocation, which is to embody Christ. Sparks argues that the Church is born from a revelation of Christ through the Holy Spirit, and its existence is not based on human organization but on spiritual birth. He warns against the dangers of legalism and the confusion of Christianity with the true Church, urging believers to focus on Christ to understand the Church's purpose. Ultimately, the Church's function is to bring Christ into every location, serving as His body on earth.
My Laws in Their Hearts
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual WarfareLiving in the WorldJHN 1:13JHN 16:8ROM 12:21CO 5:91CO 7:29EPH 5:25JAS 4:41JN 2:151JN 4:41JN 5:18Watchman Nee emphasizes the spiritual battle Christians face in a world dominated by Satan, who seeks to capture human allegiance. He explains that while believers must engage with the world, they must do so with caution, recognizing the dangers of becoming entangled in its temptations. Nee encourages Christians to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, as true safety lies in abiding in Christ rather than adhering to rigid rules. He highlights the paradox of living in the world without being of it, urging believers to maintain their spiritual integrity amidst worldly pressures. Ultimately, he reassures that those who are of God have overcome the world through the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Family of God
By J.C. Ryle0Eternal SecurityFamily Of GodJHN 1:13ROM 8:151CO 2:9GAL 3:26EPH 3:15PHP 1:23HEB 12:231PE 1:52PE 1:11REV 7:9J.C. Ryle emphasizes the significance of belonging to the family of God, contrasting it with earthly families that often face sorrow and separation. He describes the family of God as comprising all true believers, united by one Father and one Savior, Jesus Christ, and highlights the privileges and future prospects of this divine family. Ryle encourages readers to recognize their membership in this family, which offers eternal security and joy, and to live in a manner that reflects their identity as children of God. He calls for a deep reflection on one's relationship with God and the importance of being part of this eternal family, especially during family gatherings.
"According to Christ" - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks0Revelation of ChristNature of the ChurchMAT 16:18JHN 1:13ACT 20:27ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 1:16EPH 1:17COL 1:18HEB 12:261PE 2:9T. Austin-Sparks addresses the essential nature of the Church, emphasizing that it is not a mechanical system to be replicated but a living expression of Christ. He highlights the dissatisfaction among believers due to the poor state of many churches and the need for a deeper understanding of the Church's true vocation, which is to embody Christ. Sparks argues that the Church was birthed through a revelation of Christ by the Holy Spirit, and its existence is not defined by human organization but by divine action. He calls for a reconsideration of how we view the Church, urging believers to focus on Christ rather than merely traditional systems. Ultimately, the Church's purpose is to bring Christ into every location, serving as His body on earth.
He Instructed Him
By A.W. Pink0The Role of the Holy SpiritDivine InstructionPSA 119:105PSA 138:8ISA 28:10JHN 1:13JHN 3:27ROM 8:261CO 2:142TI 3:16JAS 1:51JN 2:20A.W. Pink emphasizes that God has graciously provided us with the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit as our infallible Instructor, guiding us through spiritual truths and illuminating our understanding. He highlights that true comprehension of God's Word is a divine blessing rather than an intellectual achievement, as spiritual discernment is granted by the Holy Spirit. Pink reminds us of our natural inability to grasp spiritual matters without divine assistance and encourages gratitude for God's patient instruction in our lives. He calls attention to the essential truths of total depravity, the necessity of being born again, and the sufficiency of Christ's atoning sacrifice.
The Work of the Holy Spirit in Salvation
By John F. Walvoord0JHN 1:13JHN 3:3ROM 6:13ROM 8:302CO 5:17EPH 2:5EPH 4:24PHP 1:6TIT 3:5JAS 1:181JN 5:12John F. Walvoord preaches about the profound work of the Holy Spirit in salvation, focusing on two key aspects: The Work of the Holy Spirit in Efficacious Grace and The Work of the Holy Spirit in Regeneration. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these doctrines to eliminate confusion on the assurance of salvation and the necessity of God's power in winning souls for Christ. Walvoord highlights that the doctrine of efficacious grace is firmly rooted in Scripture, emphasizing the certainty and effectiveness of God's call to salvation. He also delves into the doctrine of regeneration, explaining that it is solely an act of God, resulting in the impartation of eternal life and a new nature in the believer.
The Importance of Holiness
By Charles William Butler0MAT 5:8MRK 7:21LUK 1:73JHN 1:13JHN 17:19ROM 5:1EPH 1:7HEB 13:121JN 1:7Charles William Butler preaches on the importance of Christian holiness as a second work of grace, emphasizing its truth and value throughout Christian history. The Scriptures reveal the essential nature of holiness in salvation, addressing the twofold nature of sin and the need for reconciliation with God. While forgiveness and justification through faith in Christ address certain aspects of sin, there remains a deeper need for inner purity and sanctification to overcome the moral condition of the heart.
1 Corinthians 1:26-27
By St. John Chrysostom01KI 19:10JER 1:5JHN 1:13JHN 16:121CO 1:282CO 5:212CO 12:9John Chrysostom preaches about the divine wisdom in choosing the foolish and weak to shame the wise and strong, emphasizing the power of God's foolishness over human wisdom. He highlights the ancient prophecy of God's plan to confound the wise and the strong, showing the ineffable power and wisdom of the Cross. Chrysostom points out the humility and submission required to fully surrender to God's wisdom, as seen in the disciples' simple faith and obedience. He challenges the Corinthians to boast only in the Lord, acknowledging that true wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption come from Christ alone.
Sovereign Grace and Evangelism
By Rolfe Barnard0JHN 1:13JHN 3:3ROM 9:16EPH 2:81PE 1:3Rolfe Barnard emphasizes that the preaching of Sovereign Grace is essential for true evangelism to thrive, as it exposes the flaws in present-day evangelism methods and messages. He highlights the need to proclaim the truth about God, man, and Christ, emphasizing Christ's sovereignty in salvation. Unlike modern evangelism that focuses on what individuals must do with Jesus, true evangelism asks what the sovereign Christ will do with them, emphasizing the new birth as an act of God rather than man. Barnard calls for a return to marveling at God's mercy and grace, echoing Paul and Peter's gratitude for obtaining mercy and faith.
Epistle 104
By George Fox0JHN 1:13JHN 6:54ROM 6:4GAL 3:16EPH 4:242TI 2:21HEB 7:16JAS 4:11JN 5:9REV 6:16George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in the power of God, which tames unruly spirits and brings wisdom to order one's life to the glory of the Lord. By living in God's power, one experiences His dread, fear, and majesty, leading to cleansing, regeneration, and sanctification. This power enables believers to live in truth, newness of life, and love and unity with others, ultimately knowing the kingdom of the Most High.
Predestination
By Thomas Bradbury0NUM 23:19JOB 23:13PSA 115:3PSA 135:6ISA 30:21JER 3:19DAN 4:35JHN 1:13ROM 11:29GAL 4:6EPH 2:10Thomas Bradbury preaches on the unfailing mercy and inexhaustible patience of God towards His wayward children, highlighting His gracious dealings in restoring, saving, and delivering them from bondage. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God's will and experiencing His lovingkindness and tender mercy. The sermon delves into the significance of key phrases in Jeremiah 3, such as the Father's question 'How shall I put thee among the children?' and the child's privilege of calling God 'My Father,' ultimately leading to the child's everlasting security in not turning away from God.
The Nature of Sonship
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 54:17LUK 18:8JHN 1:13JHN 3:6JHN 5:19ROM 1:4GAL 4:6PHP 2:6HEB 6:1T. Austin-Sparks delves into the essence of 'the faith' as the unique nature of Divine sonship, emphasizing the continuous growth and maturity in the Spirit as the true mark of Christianity. He explores the question posed in Luke 18:8, 'When the Son of man cometh, shall he find the faith on the earth?' not in terms of a Christian system of doctrine, but as a search for genuine spiritual growth and maturity in believers. Sonship is portrayed as something exclusively of God, based on resurrection, and a life in the Spirit, requiring utter dependence on God for every aspect of life.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Which were born, not of blood - Who were regenerated, ουκ εξ αἱματων, not of bloods - the union of father and mother, or of a distinguished or illustrious ancestry; for the Hebrew language makes use of the plural to point out the dignity or excellence of a thing: and probably by this the evangelist intended to show his countrymen, that having Abraham and Sarah for their parents would not entitle them to the blessings of the new covenant; as no man could lay claim to them, but in consequence of being born of God; therefore, neither the will of the flesh - any thing that the corrupt heart of man could purpose or determine in its own behalf; nor the will of man - any thing that another may be disposed to do in our behalf, can avail here; this new birth must come through the will of God - through; his own unlimited power and boundless mercy, prescribing salvation by Christ Jesus alone. It has been already observed that the Jews required circumcision, baptism, and sacrifice, in order to make a proselyte. They allow that the Israelites had in Egypt cast off circumcision, and were consequently out of the covenant; but at length they were circumcised, and they mingled the blood of circumcision with the blood of the paschal lamb, and from this union of bloods they were again made the children of God. See Lightfoot. This was the only way by which the Jews could be made the sons of God; but the evangelist shows them that, under the Gospel dispensation, no person could become a child of God, but by being spiritually regenerated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Which were born--a sonship therefore not of mere title and privilege, but of nature, the soul being made conscious of the vital capacities, perceptions, and emotions of a child of God, before unknown. not of blood, &c.--not of superior human descent, not of human generation at all, not of man in any manner of way. By this elaborate threefold denial of the human source of this sonship, immense force is given to what follows, but of God--Right royal gift, and He who confers must be absolutely divine. For who would not worship Him who can bring him into the family, and evoke within him the very life, of the sons of God?
John Gill Bible Commentary
Which were born not of blood,.... Or bloods, in the plural number. The birth, here spoken of, is regeneration, expressed by a being born again, or from above; by a being quickened by the Spirit and grace of God; by Christ being formed in men; and by a partaking of the divine nature; and by being made new creatures, as all that believe in the name of Christ are; and which is the evidence of their being the sons of God: and now this is owing not to blood, or bloods; not to the blood of circumcision; or of the passover, which the Jews had an high opinion of, and ascribe life and salvation to, and to which notion this may be opposed: so their commentators (f) on Eze 16:6 where the word "live" is twice used, observe on the first "live", by the blood of the passover, on the second "live", by the blood of circumcision; but, alas! these contribute nothing to the life of the new creature: nor is regeneration owing to the blood of ancestors, to natural descent, as from Abraham, which the Jews valued themselves upon; for sin, and not grace, is conveyed by natural generation: all men are of one blood, and that is tainted with sin, and therefore can never have any influence on regeneration; no blood is to be valued, or any one upon it, but the blood of Christ, which cleanses from all sin, Nor of the will of the flesh; man's free will, which is carnal and corrupt, is enmity to God, and impotent to every thing that is spiritually good: regeneration is ascribed to another will and power, even to the will and power of God, and denied of this: nor of the will of man: of the best of men, as Abraham, David, and others; who, though ever so willing and desirous, that their children, relations, friends, and servants, should be born again, be partakers of the grace of God, and live in his sight, yet cannot effect any thing of this kind: all that they can do is to pray for them, give advice, and bring them under the means of grace; but all is ineffectual without a divine energy. So with the Jews, "a man", signifies a great man, in opposition to "Adam", or "Enosh", which signify a mean, weak, frail man; and our translators have observed this distinction, in Isa 2:9 and the mean man (Adam) boweth down, and the great man (Ish) "humbleth himself": on which Jarchi has this note, "Adam boweth down", i.e. little men; "and a man humbleth himself", i.e. princes, and mighty men, men of power: and so Kimchi on Psa 4:2. "O ye sons of men", observes, that the Psalmist calls them the sons of men, with respect to the great men of Israel; for there were with Absalom the sons of great men. Though sometimes the Jews say (g), Adam is greater than any of the names of men, as Geber, Enosh, Ish. But now our evangelist observes, let a man be ever so great, or good, or eminent, for gifts and grace, he cannot communicate grace to another, or to whom he will; none are born again of any such will: but of God; of God, the Father of Christ, who begets to a lively hope; and of the Son, who quickens whom he will; and of the grace of the Spirit, to whom regeneration is generally ascribed, (f) Jarchi & Kimchi in loc. Shemot Rabba, sect. 19. fol. 103. 2. & 104. 4. & Mattanot Cehuna in Vajikra Rabba, sect. 23. fol. 164. 2. Zohar in Lev. fol. 39. 2. (g) Zohar in Lev. fol. 20. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:13 a birth that comes from God: People can escape the darkness only by God’s grace (8:12; 12:35-36, 44-46).