John 1:13

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

Study Bible

children
The term "children" in this context refers to those who have become part of God's family through spiritual rebirth. The Greek word used here is "τέκνα" (tekna), which emphasizes the relationship and connection to God as a parent. This highlights the intimate and personal nature of the believer's relationship with God, contrasting with a mere legal or formal association. In the broader biblical narrative, being called "children of God" signifies a transformation and adoption into a divine family, underscoring the grace and love bestowed upon believers.

born not of blood
The phrase "born not of blood" signifies a birth that transcends natural lineage or ancestry. The Greek word for "blood" is "αἱμάτων" (haimatōn), which can refer to physical descent or heritage. This indicates that spiritual birth is not dependent on human ancestry or ethnic background. In the historical context of the Jewish people, who often traced their identity through lineage, this statement is radical, emphasizing that spiritual rebirth is available to all, regardless of their earthly heritage.

nor of the desire
The word "desire" here is translated from the Greek "θελήματος" (thelēmatos), which can mean will, desire, or intention. This phrase suggests that spiritual birth is not the result of human passion or emotional longing. It underscores the idea that becoming a child of God is not something that can be achieved through human effort or desire alone. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that salvation and spiritual rebirth are acts of divine grace rather than human achievement.

or will of man
The "will of man" refers to human decision-making or planning. The Greek word "ἀνδρός" (andros) specifically denotes a male, but in this context, it represents humanity in general. This phrase emphasizes that spiritual rebirth is not a product of human decision or planning. It is not something that can be orchestrated or controlled by human beings, highlighting the sovereignty and initiative of God in the process of salvation.

but born of God
The phrase "born of God" encapsulates the divine origin of spiritual rebirth. The Greek word "ἐγεννήθησαν" (egennēthēsan) is used here, which means to be born or begotten. This emphasizes that the new birth is a supernatural act initiated by God Himself. It is a work of the Holy Spirit, as described in other parts of Scripture, such as John 3:5-8. This divine birth is transformative, bringing individuals into a new life and relationship with God, characterized by His love, grace, and truth. This concept is central to the Christian faith, underscoring the belief that salvation is a gift from God, not earned by human effort.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Children of God
Refers to those who have received Christ and believed in His name, thus becoming part of God's family.

2. God
The divine being who initiates the spiritual rebirth of believers, emphasizing His sovereignty in salvation.

3. John the Apostle
The author of the Gospel of John, who provides a theological foundation for understanding the nature of spiritual rebirth.

4. The Incarnation
The event of God becoming flesh in the person of Jesus Christ, which is the context of the surrounding verses in John 1.

5. The New Birth
A spiritual transformation that is not based on human effort or lineage but is a work of God.

Teaching Points

Divine Initiative in Salvation
Salvation is initiated by God, not by human effort or lineage. This underscores the grace and sovereignty of God in the process of becoming His children.

Spiritual Rebirth
Being "born of God" signifies a spiritual transformation that is essential for entering the kingdom of God. It is a work of the Holy Spirit, not a result of human will.

Identity in Christ
As believers, our identity is rooted in being children of God. This identity is not based on our earthly heritage but on our spiritual rebirth through faith in Christ.

Humility and Gratitude
Recognizing that our salvation is a gift from God should lead us to humility and gratitude, acknowledging that it is not by our own merit.

Living as Children of God
Our new birth should be reflected in our daily lives, as we seek to live in a manner worthy of our calling as God's children, demonstrating His love and truth to the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that we are "born of God" change the way we view our identity and purpose as Christians?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate humility and gratitude for the gift of salvation in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of being "born again" challenge the idea that we can earn our way to heaven through good works?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out our identity as children of God in our communities?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to John 1:13 deepen our understanding of spiritual rebirth and God's role in our salvation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 3:3-8
Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus about being "born again" or "born of the Spirit," which further explains the concept of spiritual rebirth.

1 Peter 1:23
Discusses being born again through the living and enduring word of God, highlighting the divine origin of the new birth.

Ephesians 2:8-9
Emphasizes salvation as a gift from God, not a result of human works, aligning with the idea of being "born of God."

Romans 9:16
Stresses that God's mercy and will, not human desire or effort, are the basis for salvation.

James 1:18
Speaks of God choosing to give us birth through the word of truth, reinforcing the divine initiative in spiritual rebirth.