Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "new birth," also known as being "born again," is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, signifying a spiritual rebirth and transformation that all believers, or saints, partake in. This transformative experience is essential for entering the Kingdom of God and is a work of the Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of a believer's new life in Christ.Biblical Foundation The new birth is prominently introduced in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John. Jesus explains the necessity of being born again to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council. In John 3:3, Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This statement underscores the indispensability of spiritual rebirth for salvation and entry into God's kingdom. Further elaboration is provided in John 3:5-6, where Jesus states, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh is born of flesh, but spirit is born of the Spirit." Here, Jesus distinguishes between physical birth and spiritual birth, emphasizing that the new birth is a divine act accomplished by the Holy Spirit. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the new birth, as it is through the Spirit that believers are regenerated and renewed. 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 the new birth is not a result of human effort but a merciful act of God, facilitated by the Holy Spirit's transformative power. Evidence of the New Birth The new birth results in a profound change in the believer's life, characterized by a new nature and a desire to live in accordance with God's will. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation is evident in the believer's conduct, attitudes, and relationship with God. The Apostle Peter also speaks to the reality of the new birth in 1 Peter 1:23, stating, "For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God." This verse emphasizes the enduring and eternal nature of the new birth, rooted in the Word of God. Universal Experience Among Saints The new birth is a universal experience among all saints, as it is the means by which individuals become children of God. John 1:12-13 affirms this truth: "But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God." This passage underscores that the new birth is a divine initiative, granting believers the status of God's children. Implications for Christian Living The new birth has significant implications for Christian living, as it calls believers to a life of holiness, obedience, and love. 1 John 3:9 states, "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 verse highlights the transformative power of the new birth, which empowers believers to overcome sin and live righteously. In summary, the new birth is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith, marking the beginning of a believer's spiritual journey and relationship with God. It is a divine work of the Holy Spirit, resulting in a new nature and a life that reflects the character of Christ. All saints partake of this transformative experience, which is essential for salvation and entry into the Kingdom of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 8:16,17The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Peter 2:2 1 John 5:1 Library [Shewing] that Common and Saving Grace Differ, not Only in Degree ... Because the Partial-Rapture Theory Introduces a Situation that is ... Christ, the Believer's Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and ... 1 to Pray is as it were to be on Speaking Terms with Me... The New-Birth Modern Revivals. Modern Revivals Concerning Perfection. On Regeneration Philemon i. 6-Apr Resources What are the New Heavens and the New Earth? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the New Apostolic Reformation? | GotQuestions.org What is the New Covenant? | 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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