What does John 3:6 mean?

Explanation

John 3:6 contrasts the two distinct births that humans can experience: physical birth and spiritual rebirth.

The first part, "That which is born of the flesh is flesh," refers to natural birth, the process every human being undergoes when they are born to their earthly parents.

This is the biological aspect of existence, encompassing all that is tangible and material.

The second part, "and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit," refers to the transformational process of spiritual rebirth.

Here, "Spirit" with a capital 'S' refers to the Holy Spirit, implying that it is by the action and influence of God's Spirit that a person is spiritually regenerated or born again.

This spiritual birth is not of physical nature but is a transformative inner experience, indicating a new life in relationship with God.

Historical Context

The verse is part of a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council.

In the Gospel of John, chapter 3, Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, likely to avoid the attention of those who might have seen such an inquiry as controversial given Jesus' contentious reputation among some Jewish leaders.

They discuss the concept of being "born again" or "born from above," which confounded Nicodemus.

This conversation takes place within the context of Jewish religious expectations and Messianic hopes, through which Jesus introduces a radical spiritual transformation as a requirement for entering the Kingdom of God.

Theological Insights

There are various theological interpretations of John 3:6.

In Evangelical Christianity, it is often understood to affirm the necessity of a spiritual rebirth for salvation.

The Catholic tradition also recognizes the importance of spiritual rebirth, typically associating it with the Sacrament of Baptism, which they believe initiates this new birth in the Holy Spirit.

Some Protestant Reformers, such as Martin Luther, emphasized this verse to distinguish between the righteousness obtained through faith and the righteousness of one's own works or flesh.

Other theological views might interpret the "flesh" as the fallen human nature in need of transformation through the Spirit.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse encourages individuals to look beyond physical existence and to seek a deeper, spiritual rebirth.

It can be applied in life by fostering spiritual development, cultivating a relationship with God, and prioritizing moral and spiritual growth over material pursuits.

It also challenges believers to live by the guidance of the Spirit, exemplifying the values and virtues that reflect this new birth, such as love, joy, peace, and self-control.

Cross-References

• John 1:12-13: "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."
• Romans 8:5-6: "For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."

• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

Language Study

In the original Greek text of John 3:6, key words provide depth to the meaning:

• "Flesh" (σάρξ, sarx) encompasses the physical human nature, the corporeal aspect of life, and in a wider sense the weakness of humanity.
• "Spirit" (πνεῦμα, pneuma) is used to refer to the Holy Spirit, implying the presence and power of God that enables spiritual life and renewal.

The Greek term "born" (γεγεννημένον, gegennēmenon) refers to the origin or the process of coming into existence, emphasizing the action and the result of birth or beginning anew.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

John 3:6 echoes notions of spiritual renewal found in other religious traditions.

For example, in Hinduism, the concept of being born anew can be related to reincarnation, where the soul is reborn into a new body.

In Buddhism, there is a metaphorical rebirth through enlightenment, where one seeks to transcend the cycle of rebirth through spiritual awakening.

Ancient mythologies also have stories of gods or heroes undergoing physical or symbolic rebirths, often as a form of transformation or renewal.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse can be seen as addressing the distinction between the biological and the psychological or social aspects of human life.

While science explains the physical birth process in biological terms, the concept of being "born of the Spirit" touches upon intangible qualities like consciousness, morality, and identity.

Modern psychology might parallel this transformation with significant personal change or the idea of ego death and rebirth in transformative experiences.

Commentaries

Commentators have offered various insights into this verse:

• Matthew Henry's commentary highlights the inherent difference between that which our nature produces and that which the grace of God produces in the human soul.
• The MacArthur Study Bible notes suggest that the natural birth brings a person into physical life, but spiritual birth is required for spiritual life.
• The ESV Study Bible explains that the flesh is powerless to attain the spiritual birth, which is a sovereign work of the Holy Spirit bringing life to someone dead in trespasses and sin.