Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "new birth," or being "born again," is a fundamental tenet of Christian theology, emphasizing spiritual rebirth and transformation through faith in Jesus Christ. This doctrine is primarily derived from Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in the Gospel of John, where He declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). Despite its centrality to Christian faith, the notion of the new birth has often been met with misunderstanding and skepticism, both historically and in contemporary discourse.Biblical Context and Explanation The new birth is introduced in John 3, where Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, approaches Jesus by night. Nicodemus acknowledges Jesus as a teacher from God, yet struggles to comprehend the spiritual truths Jesus imparts. 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 statement underscores the necessity of spiritual regeneration, a transformation that transcends physical birth and is wrought by the Holy Spirit. Ignorance and Misunderstanding Nicodemus' response to Jesus' teaching exemplifies the ignorance and misunderstanding that often accompany discussions of the new birth. He questions, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter his mother’s womb a second time to be born?" (John 3:4). This literal interpretation reveals a common cavil: the inability to grasp spiritual truths due to a reliance on human reasoning and material understanding. The Apostle Paul addresses similar misunderstandings in his epistles, emphasizing the spiritual nature of Christian transformation. In 1 Corinthians 2:14, he writes, "The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned" . This highlights the spiritual blindness that can hinder acceptance of the new birth. Historical and Contemporary Skepticism Throughout history, the doctrine of the new birth has faced skepticism from those who view it as irrational or unnecessary. In the early church, Gnostic influences and other heretical teachings often distorted the simplicity of the gospel message, leading to confusion about the nature of salvation and spiritual rebirth. In modern times, secularism and rationalism have further fueled skepticism. Critics argue that the concept of being "born again" is merely psychological or emotional, dismissing its spiritual significance. This skepticism is often rooted in a materialistic worldview that denies the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit. Theological Significance Despite the cavil and skepticism, the new birth remains a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, signifying the transformative power of God's grace. It is through this spiritual rebirth that believers are adopted into the family of God, becoming new creations in Christ. 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!" . The new birth is not merely a change in behavior or a new set of beliefs; it is a profound transformation of the heart and mind, initiated and sustained by the Holy Spirit. This spiritual rebirth is essential for entering the kingdom of God and living a life that reflects the character of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 3:4Nicodemus said to him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Resemblance Between the Old Testament and the New. On Being Filled with the Spirit The Learned Pagans had Means and Opportunities of Informing ... Letter Lxix. To Oceanus. Through the Fall and Revolt of Adam, the Whole Human Race Made ... A vindication of Gospel Truths Opened, Book vii. This is the Seventh Book of Our Treatise against the ... 2 Cor. Iii. 7, 8 Every Thing Proceeding from the Corrupt Nature of Man Damnable. Against Atheism and Infidelity. 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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