Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "New Birth" or being "born again" is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. This spiritual rebirth is essential for entering the Kingdom of God and is characterized by the impartation of a new spirit within the individual.Biblical Foundation The primary scriptural basis for the New Birth is found in the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in the Gospel of John. Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). This statement underscores the necessity of a spiritual rebirth, distinct from physical birth, to perceive and enter God's Kingdom. Further, 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 indicates that the New Birth involves both a cleansing (symbolized by water) and a renewal by the Holy Spirit. The Role of the Holy Spirit The New Birth is primarily the work of the Holy Spirit, who regenerates and renews the believer. Titus 3:5 affirms this, stating, "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" . This passage highlights that salvation and the New Birth are acts of divine grace, not human effort. The prophet Ezekiel also foretold this transformation, where God promises, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh" (Ezekiel 36:26). This prophecy points to the internal change wrought by the Spirit, replacing a hardened heart with one responsive to God. Evidence of the New Birth The New Birth results in a profound change in the believer's life, evidenced by a new nature and a new way of living. The Apostle Paul writes, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). This transformation involves a departure from former sinful ways and the adoption of a life characterized by righteousness and holiness. The fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23, serves as evidence of the New Birth: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" . These attributes reflect the character of Christ and are cultivated in the believer through the indwelling Spirit. The Assurance of the New Birth Believers can have assurance of their New Birth through the witness of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:16 states, "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children" . This internal testimony provides confidence and security in one's relationship with God. Moreover, the New Birth is accompanied by a desire for fellowship with God and His people, a hunger for His Word, and a commitment to obey His commands. These desires and actions are indicative of the Spirit's work in the believer's life, affirming their new identity in Christ. Conclusion The New Birth is a divine act of regeneration, imparting a new spirit to the believer and enabling them to live a life pleasing to God. It is a foundational experience for all who seek to follow Christ, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith and transformation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 11:19And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh: Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 7:6 Library That this New Birth of the Spirit, or the Divine Life in Man... The Marks of the New Birth The New Birth The New-Birth Suffering the Birth-Pains of a New Life. How the Eternal Birth of God is Renewed Without Interruption in ... First Catechetical Lecture of Our Holy Father Cyril, Christ and Nicodemus. The Old Man and the New Man of St. Paul Explained. "But if the Spirit of Him that Raised up Jesus from the Dead Dwell ... Resources What does it mean that a Christian is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the New Calvinists, and what are the beliefs of New Calvinism? | GotQuestions.org How can I help new believers? | GotQuestions.org New: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus 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) |
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