Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

JOHN 3:7KJV
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John 3:7 (KJV)

What does John 3:7 mean?

John 3:7 records Jesus telling Nicodemus not to be surprised that He said, “You must be born again.” Jesus is emphasizing that spiritual rebirth is necessary for anyone who wants to see God’s kingdom, and Nicodemus should not find this idea shocking or strange.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking privately with Nicodemus, a respected Jewish leader who is confused by Jesus’ earlier statement about being “born again.” Jesus addresses Nicodemus directly, making it clear that this new birth is not optional but required for everyone. The verse highlights the importance and universality of spiritual transformation in Jesus’ teaching.

The Greek behind John 3:7

  • “Marvel” (θαυμάζω, thaumazō) means to be amazed or astonished. Jesus uses this word to tell Nicodemus not to be caught off guard or confused by the idea of being born again, suggesting that this teaching, while surprising, is fundamental.
  • “Must” (δεῖ, dei) carries the sense of necessity or something that is absolutely required. Jesus is not giving a suggestion but stating a requirement for entering God’s kingdom.
  • “Born again” (γεννηθῆναι ἄνωθεν, gennēthēnai anōthen) is often understood as “born from above” or “born anew.” The Greek word ἄνωθεν (anōthen) can mean both “again” and “from above,” hinting at a spiritual, not just physical, birth.

Why John 3:7 matters

  • John 3:7 clarifies that Jesus’ teaching about being “born again” is not just for Nicodemus but for everyone (“Ye” is plural), showing the universal need for spiritual renewal.
  • The verse addresses confusion or resistance to Jesus’ message, showing that even religious leaders can struggle to grasp spiritual truths.
  • This statement sets up the rest of Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus, where He explains more about the nature of spiritual birth and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Where else these words appear

“again” Greek G509 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 27:51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
  • John 3:31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.
  • Galatians 4:9 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

“Marvel” Greek G2296 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
  • Luke 1:63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.
  • John 7:15 And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?

“born” Greek G1080 · used in 65 verses

  • Matthew 1:2 Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren;
  • Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
  • Acts 7:29 Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.

“must” Greek G1163 · used in 104 verses

  • Matthew 16:21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.
  • John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
  • Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.