Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 1:18

"No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared [him]." — John 1:18 (ASV)

The noun “God” has no article in the Greek text, which indicates that the author is presenting God in his nature of being rather than as a person. “Deity” might be a more accurate rendering. The meaning is that no human has ever seen the essence of deity. God is invisible, not because he is unreal, but because physical eyes are incapable of detecting him. Deity as a being is known only through spiritual means that are able to receive its (his) communications. “God the one and only” is as strong an affirmation of the deity of Christ as is v.1.

“At the Father’s side” is substantially the same expression as that used in 13:23 concerning “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” who “was reclining next to him.” It shows intimate association, which presupposes close fellowship. As the confidant of the Father, Jesus is uniquely qualified to act as the intermediary who can carry the knowledge of God to humans.

The phrase “has made him known” (GK 2007) means to “explain” or “interpret.” The being and nature of God, which cannot be perceived directly by ordinary senses, have been adequately presented to us by the Incarnation. The life and words of Jesus are more than an announcement; they are an explanation of God’s attitude toward humans and of his purpose for them.