Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "New Birth," also known as being "born again," is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing spiritual rebirth and transformation through faith in Jesus Christ. This doctrine is primarily derived from the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John.Biblical Foundation The most explicit reference to the New Birth is found in John 3:3-7, where Jesus converses with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council. Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). Nicodemus, perplexed by this statement, questions how a person can be born again when they are old. Jesus explains, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit" (John 3:5). This passage underscores the necessity of spiritual rebirth for entry into God's kingdom. Theological Significance The New Birth signifies a profound transformation that occurs when an individual places their faith in Jesus Christ. It is a work of the Holy Spirit, who regenerates the believer, imparting new spiritual life. This transformation is not merely a moral or ethical change but a fundamental renewal of the individual's nature. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come" . Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the New Birth. According to Titus 3:5, "He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit" . The Spirit's work in regeneration is both cleansing and renewing, enabling the believer to live a life that reflects the character of Christ. Faith and Repentance The New Birth is closely associated with faith and repentance. Faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is the means by which one receives the New Birth. Repentance, a turning away from sin and turning toward God, is an integral part of this process. Acts 2:38 records Peter's exhortation, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" . Evidence of the New Birth The New Birth results in a transformed life, characterized by a desire to follow Christ and live according to His teachings. The apostle John emphasizes that those who are born of God will exhibit love for others and obedience to God's commandments (1 John 5:1-3). The presence of the Holy Spirit within the believer produces the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Eternal Implications The New Birth has eternal implications, as it is the means by which believers are assured of their salvation and eternal life. Jesus assures in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" . This promise of eternal life is a central hope for those who have experienced the New Birth. In summary, the New Birth is a transformative work of God, essential for salvation and entry into the kingdom of God. It is initiated by the Holy Spirit, received through faith and repentance, and evidenced by a life of obedience and love. Subtopics Neophytes: General Scriptures Concerning New Moon: Traffic at Time of, Suspended Select Readings: The New Heaven and the New Earth The New Birth is for the Glory of God The New Birth is of the Mercy of God The New Birth is of the Will of God The New Birth: A Spiritual Resurrection The New Birth: All Saints Partake of The New Birth: Circumcision of the Heart The New Birth: Connected With Adoption The New Birth: Effected by Christ The New Birth: Effected by God The New Birth: Effected by The Holy Spirit The New Birth: Evidenced by Brotherly Love The New Birth: Evidenced by Faith in Christ The New Birth: Evidenced by Righteousness The New Birth: Manner of Effecting--Illustrated The New Birth: Newness of Life The New Birth: None Can Enter Heaven Without The New Birth: Partaking of the Divine Nature The New Birth: Preserves from Satan's Devices The New Birth: Produces Delight in God's Law The New Birth: Produces Hatred of Sin The New Birth: Produces Knowledge of God The New Birth: Produces Likeness to Christ The New Birth: Produces Likeness to God The New Birth: Produces Victory Over the World The New Birth: Putting on the New Man The New Birth: The Corruption of Human Nature Requires The New Birth: The Ignorant Cavil At The New Birth: The Washing of Regeneration The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Ministry of the Gospel The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Resurrection of Christ The New Birth: Through the Instrumentality of The Word of God Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |