Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the New Birth, often referred to as the "Washing of Regeneration," is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. This doctrine is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Apostles, highlighting the necessity of spiritual rebirth for salvation and entrance into the Kingdom of God.Biblical Foundation The term "Washing of Regeneration" is derived from Titus 3:5, where the Apostle Paul writes, "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 underscores the belief that salvation is not achieved through human effort but through the merciful act of God, who renews and regenerates the believer through the Holy Spirit. Jesus and the New Birth The concept of being "born again" is prominently featured in Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus 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" . When Nicodemus expresses confusion, Jesus further 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 passage highlights the necessity of spiritual rebirth, which involves both a cleansing ("water") and a transformative work of the Spirit. Symbolism of Water and Spirit The imagery of water in the context of the New Birth is symbolic of cleansing and purification. In Ezekiel 36:25-27, God promises to cleanse His people with "clean water" and to give them a "new heart" and a "new spirit." This Old Testament prophecy finds its fulfillment in the New Testament understanding of regeneration, where the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in purifying and renewing the believer. The Spirit's role in regeneration is further emphasized in passages such as 1 Corinthians 6:11, where Paul reminds the Corinthians, "But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God" . This underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in sanctifying and justifying believers. Theological Implications The doctrine of the New Birth and the Washing of Regeneration carries significant theological implications. It affirms the total depravity of humanity and the inability of individuals to achieve righteousness through their own efforts. Instead, it highlights the necessity of divine intervention and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in bringing about spiritual renewal. Furthermore, the New Birth is seen as a prerequisite for entering the Kingdom of God, as it marks the beginning of a new life in Christ. This transformation is not merely an external change but an internal renewal that affects the believer's entire being, leading to a life characterized by obedience to God and the fruit of the Spirit. Practical Application For believers, the doctrine of the New Birth serves as a reminder of the grace and mercy of God in salvation. It calls Christians to live in the reality of their new identity in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit to walk in holiness and righteousness. The Washing of Regeneration also encourages believers to rely on the Spirit's ongoing work in their lives, continually renewing and transforming them into the image of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Titus 3:5Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Postscript. Meaning Op the Word Regeneration. Commentaries and Standards on the Birth of Water and Spirit. He Further Very Appositely Expounds the Meaning of the Term "Only ... Entire Sanctification in Prophecy. The Regenerating Work of the Holy Spirit. On Regeneration Baptism, a Divinely Appointed Means of Grace. The New Birth Sunday after Easter The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... 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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