Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "new birth" or being "born again" is a fundamental tenet in Christian theology, signifying a spiritual transformation and renewal of the heart. This transformation is essential for entering the Kingdom of God and is intricately linked with the reception of a new heart, as promised in the Scriptures.Biblical Foundation The idea of the new birth is prominently introduced in the New Testament, particularly in the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus. 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 a spiritual rebirth, which is not a physical rebirth but a profound inner transformation. The Old Testament also anticipates this transformation. In Ezekiel 36:26, God promises, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." This prophecy highlights the divine initiative in renewing the human heart, replacing its hardness with a responsive and obedient spirit. Theological Significance The new birth is a work of the Holy Spirit, as explained by Jesus 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." This passage emphasizes that the new birth is a spiritual act, initiated and completed by the Holy Spirit, resulting in a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). The transformation involves a change in the believer's nature, desires, and relationship with God. The new heart signifies a heart that is aligned with God's will, characterized by love, obedience, and a desire for righteousness. This change is not merely external but deeply internal, affecting the core of one's being. Practical Implications The new birth leads to a life of holiness and sanctification. As Paul writes in Romans 6:4, "We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life." This newness of life is marked by a departure from sin and a pursuit of godliness. Moreover, the new heart enables believers to fulfill the greatest commandments: to love God with all their heart, soul, and mind, and to love their neighbors as themselves (Matthew 22:37-39). The indwelling of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live out these commandments, producing the fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23. Conclusion The new birth and the reception of a new heart are central to the Christian experience, signifying a radical transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit. This transformation is essential for entering the Kingdom of God and living a life that reflects the character and love of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 36:26A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Marks of the New Birth The New Birth The New-Birth A Penitent Heart, the Best New Year's Gift The Believer a New Creature First Catechetical Lecture of Our Holy Father Cyril, Entire Sanctification in Prophecy. Suffering the Birth-Pains of a New Life. The New Heart Waiting Faith Rewarded and Strengthened by New Revelations 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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