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 occurs when an individual accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This transformative experience is closely associated with the believer's participation in the divine nature, as described in the New Testament.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 3:3-7 , Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." Nicodemus, puzzled by this statement, questions how a person can be born again. Jesus explains, "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." This passage highlights the necessity of a spiritual rebirth, distinct from physical birth, facilitated by the Holy Spirit. The New Birth is not a human achievement but a divine act of grace, enabling believers to enter the kingdom of God. Partaking of the Divine Nature The New Birth is intricately linked to the concept of partaking in the divine nature, as articulated by the Apostle Peter. In 2 Peter 1:3-4 , Peter writes, "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. Through these, He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." This passage emphasizes that through the New Birth, believers are granted access to God's divine power and promises, enabling them to share in His nature. This participation is not a transformation into deity but a moral and spiritual renewal that aligns believers with God's character and will. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the New Birth and the believer's participation in the divine nature. In Titus 3:5-6 , 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. This is the Spirit He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior." The Holy Spirit is the agent of regeneration, cleansing believers from sin and renewing their hearts and minds. This renewal is an ongoing process, empowering believers to live in accordance with God's will and to grow in holiness. Implications for Christian Living The New Birth and partaking of the divine nature have profound implications for Christian living. Believers are called to live a life that reflects their new identity in Christ. In Ephesians 4:22-24 , Paul exhorts believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This transformation involves a conscious effort to reject sinful behaviors and to cultivate virtues that mirror God's character. The New Birth empowers believers to overcome the corruption of the world and to pursue a life of godliness, marked by love, joy, peace, and other fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Conclusion The New Birth, as a spiritual rebirth and participation in the divine nature, is a cornerstone of Christian faith. It signifies a profound transformation that aligns believers with God's character and empowers them to live a life of holiness and righteousness. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers are renewed and equipped to fulfill their calling as children of God, reflecting His glory in a fallen world. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Peter 1:4Whereby are given to us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these you might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library [Shewing] that Common and Saving Grace Differ, not Only in Degree ... The Regenerating Work of the Holy Spirit. Of Eternal and Temporal Nature. Eucharistic Doctrine. Degrees of Happiness in Heaven. Guiltless and Without Sin. Life. Concerning Perfection. A New Creation Book ii. Believers have Always Found their Satisfaction in that ... 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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