Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "New Birth," also known as being "born again," is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing spiritual renewal and transformation. This doctrine is primarily derived from the teachings of Jesus Christ and the writings of the New Testament.Biblical Foundation The term "born again" is most famously articulated in the Gospel of John during Jesus' 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 entry into God's kingdom. 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 addresses the concept of new birth in his epistles. In 1 Peter 1:3, he writes, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead." This passage highlights the role of God's mercy and the resurrection of Christ as the foundation for the believer's new birth. Theological Significance The new birth is understood as a work of the Holy Spirit, who regenerates the believer, imparting new spiritual life. This transformation is not merely a moral or ethical change but a profound renewal of the individual's nature. The Apostle Paul describes this transformation in 2 Corinthians 5:17, stating, "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 also associated with the concept of justification and sanctification. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are justified, or declared righteous before God, and begin the process of sanctification, growing in holiness and conformity to the image of Christ. This is reflected in Titus 3:5, where 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." Practical Implications The new birth has profound implications for the believer's life. It marks the beginning of a new relationship with God, characterized by intimacy and fellowship. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live a life that reflects the values and character of the kingdom of God. This transformation is evident in the believer's actions, attitudes, and priorities, as they seek to live in obedience to God's will. Moreover, the new birth is a source of assurance and hope. Believers are assured of their salvation and eternal life, as they have been adopted into God's family. This assurance is rooted in the promises of God and the finished work of Christ, providing a foundation for enduring faith and perseverance. Conclusion The doctrine of new birth is central to the Christian faith, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual regeneration and transformation through the work of the Holy Spirit. It is a profound mystery and a testament to God's grace, offering believers a new identity and purpose in Christ. Topical Bible Verses John 3:3Jesus answered and said to him, Truly, truly, I say to you, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Topicalbible.org 2 Corinthians 5:17 1 John 1:9 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia New BirthNEW BIRTH See REGENERATION. Greek 3824. paliggenesia -- regeneration, renewal ... of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: paliggenesia Phonetic Spelling: (pal-ing-ghen-es-ee'-ah) Short Definition: a new birth, regeneration Definition: ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3824.htm - 7k 5604. odin -- a birth pang 313. anagennao -- to beget again Strong's Hebrew 1069. bakar -- to bear new fruit, to constitute as first-born... born NASB Word Usage bear (1), first child (1), firstborn (2), giving birth (1), make (1). make firstborn, be firstling, bring forth first child new fruit. ... /hebrew/1069.htm - 6k Library June the Eighth the New Birth That this New Birth of the Spirit, or the Divine Life in Man... Necessity of the New Birth. The New Birth The Marks of the New Birth Something Different from the New Birth. The Old and the New Birth. 1M. *Gaskell. The New Birth. The New-Birth Entire Sanctification as Taught by 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 |
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