New Testament
John 1:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
All things were made through him, and without him nothing was made that was made.
Compare translations
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
What John 1:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the role of Jesus in creation, stating that everything that exists was made through him. It highlights the idea that nothing came into being without his involvement. This underscores the belief in Jesus not just as a teacher or prophet, but as a divine figure who has authority over all creation. The phrase 'without him nothing was made that was made' reinforces the concept that Jesus is central to the existence of all things, indicating his preeminence and divine nature. This verse invites readers to recognize the significance of Jesus in the broader context of the universe and existence itself, suggesting that understanding him is key to understanding the world around us.
How to apply John 1:3 to your life
Recognizing Jesus as the creator can deepen our appreciation for the world around us. It encourages us to see the divine hand in nature and our lives, prompting us to live with gratitude and purpose, acknowledging that everything we have is a gift from him.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about John 1:3
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying John 1:3
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 1:3 mean?
John 1:3 means that everything in existence was created through Jesus. It emphasizes that nothing was made without his involvement, highlighting his role in creation.
What is the significance of 'without him nothing was made' in John 1:3?
The phrase 'without him nothing was made' signifies that Jesus is essential to all creation. It underscores his divine authority and central role in the existence of everything.
How does John 1:3 relate to the concept of creation?
John 1:3 relates to creation by asserting that all things were made through Jesus. It emphasizes that he is the source of all existence, linking him directly to the act of creation.
What themes are present in John 1:3?
Themes in John 1:3 include creation, the divinity of Jesus, his authority, and the centrality of Christ in existence. It highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus in understanding the world.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.