John 1:11-13 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
The sinner must be born. But born how?
This text sets up a contrast between the human and the divine in salvation, the new birth. A threefold negative denies any recourse to any human source.
- Not of blood. (cf. Acts 17:26; Matthew 3:9)
- Nor of the will of the flesh. (cf. John 3:6; Matthew 6:27)
- Nor of the will of man. (cf. John 5:40; 6:44)
This threefold cord is too strong to be broken. It will not allow for salvation by any human means. The Jews prided themselves on being the descendants of Abraham. Even children of Christian parents may take false refuge in that type of relationship. Three times we are told that being born sons of God is not of man. Man cannot breed or birth his own salvation. Man cannot bring forth his own salvation. Man cannot buy or borrow his own salvation. It is not by human descent, human desire, or human development. Man cannot save himself. Salvation is of the Lord (Jonah 2:9; Ephesians 2:8-9).
In stark contrast to the threefold denial, John confirms, but [born] of God. Salvation is a divine work, not a human achievement.
John 6:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
- as many as received him
- to them gave he power (to become the sons of God)
- them that believe on his name
Born of God!
“Ye must be born again.” (John 3:7)
1 comment:
Amen!
E. T. Chapman
Post a Comment