The term "Believers" in the Christian context refers to individuals who have faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This faith is not merely intellectual assent but involves a deep, personal trust and reliance on Christ for salvation. The concept of being "Born of God" is closely related and signifies a spiritual rebirth, a transformation that occurs when one becomes a believer.

Biblical Foundation

The idea of being "Born of God" is rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In the Gospel of John, Jesus explains this concept to Nicodemus, a Pharisee, saying, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). This new birth is not a physical one but a spiritual transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit.

The Apostle John further elaborates on this in his epistles. In 1 John 5:1, he writes, "Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the Father also loves the one born of Him" . This passage highlights the connection between faith in Christ and being born of God, emphasizing that belief is the hallmark of those who have undergone this spiritual rebirth.

Characteristics of Believers

Believers, as those born of God, exhibit certain characteristics that distinguish them from the world. According to 1 John 3:9, "No one born of God practices sin, because God’s seed abides in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God" . This does not imply sinless perfection but indicates a fundamental change in the believer's relationship with sin. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to resist sin and pursue righteousness.

Another key characteristic of believers is love. 1 John 4:7 states, "Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God" . Love for others, especially fellow believers, is a natural outflow of the new nature imparted by the Holy Spirit.

The Role of Faith

Faith is central to the identity of believers. Hebrews 11:6 declares, "And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" . This faith is not passive but active, manifesting in obedience to God's commands and trust in His promises.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Ephesians, underscores the role of faith in salvation: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8). Faith is the means by which believers receive the grace of God, leading to salvation and the new birth.

Assurance and Security

Believers who are born of God have the assurance of eternal life. In 1 John 5:13, John writes, "I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life" . This assurance is based on the promises of God and the finished work of Christ, providing believers with confidence in their salvation.

Moreover, believers are secure in their relationship with God. Jesus assures His followers in John 10:28-29, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand" . This security is rooted in the power and faithfulness of God, who preserves His people.

Conclusion

The identity of believers as those born of God is a profound truth with significant implications for their lives. Through faith in Christ, they experience a spiritual rebirth, characterized by a new relationship with sin, a love for others, and the assurance of eternal life. This transformation is a testament to the power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who believe.