Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe concept of the "New Birth," also known as being "born again," is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing a spiritual rebirth and transformation through faith in Jesus Christ. This transformation is not merely a moral or ethical change but a profound spiritual renewal that signifies the beginning of a new life in Christ. The New Birth is evidenced by a genuine faith in Jesus Christ, which manifests in a believer's life through a transformed heart, mind, and actions. Biblical Foundation The New Birth is primarily rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly in His conversation with 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 necessity of spiritual rebirth for entering the kingdom of God. Jesus further explains in John 3:5-6, "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." The Apostle Peter also affirms this concept 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 passage highlights the enduring and divine nature of the New Birth, which is initiated by the Word of God and the work of the Holy Spirit. Evidenced by Faith in Christ Faith in Jesus Christ is the primary evidence of the New Birth. This faith is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, personal trust and reliance on Christ for salvation. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." Faith is the means by which believers receive the grace of God and experience the New Birth. The transformation that accompanies the New Birth is further evidenced by a life that reflects the character and teachings of Christ. In Galatians 2:20, Paul writes, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." This verse illustrates the profound change that occurs in a believer's life, where Christ becomes the center and source of their existence. 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. In Titus 3:5, Paul explains, "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 Holy Spirit is the agent of regeneration, bringing about the New Birth and empowering believers to live a life of faith and obedience. Manifestations of the New Birth The New Birth results in a transformed life that bears the fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." These qualities are evidence of the Spirit's work in a believer's life and a testament to the reality of the New Birth. Additionally, the New Birth leads to a new identity in Christ, as believers are adopted into the family of God. In Romans 8:15-16, Paul writes, "For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children." This new identity brings assurance, belonging, and a deep relationship with God as Father. Conclusion The New Birth, evidenced by faith in Christ, is a transformative experience that marks the beginning of a believer's spiritual journey. It is characterized by a profound change in heart and life, brought about by the Holy Spirit, and results in a new identity and relationship with God. Through faith, believers are empowered to live in accordance with God's will, reflecting the character of Christ in their daily lives. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 John 5:1Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loves him that begat loves him also that is begotten of him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Sovereignty of God in Salvation On God's vineyard Marks of Having Received the Holy Ghost The Apostasy which Prepares the Way for the Antichrist. Its Meaning Love's Logic The Gospel of John The New Evangelism: and Its Relation to Cardinal Doctrines Worldly Business no Plea for the Neglect of Religion Homilies on the Gospel of John. 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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