King James Version
What Does John 3:27 Mean?
“John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. receive: or, take unto himself”
Context
25
Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.
26
And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.
27
John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. receive: or, take unto himself
28
Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him.
29
He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(27) **A man can receive nothing . . .**—Do these words apply to the Baptist himself, or to Christ? Do they mean “I cannot assume this higher position which you wish to give me, because it is not given me by heaven;” or, “His work, with its influence over men, ought to convince you that His mission is divine “? Expositors have given, now this, now that answer. The immediate connection with John 3:26 points to the latter view as the correct one (but see *Alford’s* Note on the other side). The power that had shown itself in word and work, teaching as none ever taught before, binding men—aye, some of their own brotherhood—to Himself, convincing men whose minds were open to the truth that He was the very Christ—all this could only have been received from heaven. Did they feel the movement around them? Let them recognise it as divine, and seek to be borne with it. (See Note on John 6:36.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
John 3:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to John 3:27
James 1:17
→1 Corinthians 4:7
→1 Corinthians 15:10
→1 Peter 4:10-11
→1 Corinthians 2:12-14
→Jeremiah 1:5
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge