Topical Bible: The New Birth: Preserves from Satan's Devices

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The concept of the "new birth," also known as being "born again," is a fundamental doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing the transformative power of spiritual rebirth through faith in Jesus Christ. This transformation is not merely a change in behavior but a profound renewal of the inner person, resulting in a new creation in Christ. The new birth is essential for salvation and serves as a divine safeguard against the schemes and devices of Satan.

Biblical Foundation

The necessity of the new birth is clearly articulated in the Gospel of John. Jesus explains to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, the imperative of being born again: "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). This rebirth is not of the flesh but of the Spirit, signifying a spiritual transformation that aligns the believer with the will and purposes of God.

Protection from Satan's Devices

The new birth equips believers with spiritual armor and discernment, enabling them to resist the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:11 exhorts believers to "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" . This armor, which includes truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God, is accessible to those who have experienced the new birth, empowering them to stand firm against spiritual deception and temptation.

Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

A key aspect of the new birth is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who acts as a guide, comforter, and protector. The Apostle Paul writes, "And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit" (Ephesians 1:13). This seal signifies ownership and protection, ensuring that the believer is safeguarded from the enemy's influence.

Renewed Mind and Heart

The new birth results in a renewed mind and heart, which are crucial in discerning and resisting Satan's devices. Romans 12:2 urges believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God" . This transformation enables believers to recognize and reject the lies and temptations that Satan may present.

Victory Over Sin

Through the new birth, believers are granted victory over sin, which is a primary tool of Satan. The Apostle John assures believers, "We know that anyone born of God does not keep on sinning; the One who was born of God protects him, and the evil one cannot touch him" (1 John 5:18). This victory is not achieved through human effort but through the power of Christ's redemptive work and the ongoing sanctification by the Holy Spirit.

Community and Accountability

The new birth also places believers within the body of Christ, the Church, where they find community and accountability. This fellowship provides support and encouragement, helping believers to remain vigilant against Satan's devices. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "spur one another on to love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together" , emphasizing the importance of communal strength in spiritual warfare.

In summary, the new birth is a divine transformation that not only reconciles individuals to God but also equips them with the necessary tools to withstand and overcome the devices of Satan. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, a renewed mind, victory over sin, and the support of the Christian community, believers are preserved and empowered to live in accordance with God's will, free from the bondage of the enemy.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 John 5:18
We know that whoever is born of God sins not; but he that is begotten of God keeps himself, and that wicked one touches him not.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

But Whilst the King Has not that Most Blessed Light...
... life to them that have it," animates, preserves in life ... e'en on earth may song have
birth, And music rise o'er Nature's groanings," Whilst Hope new born each ...
/.../jennings/old groans and new songs/chapter vii but whilst the.htm

A Treatise of the Fear of God;
... Bunyan was not ignorant of Satan's devices, and he has roused the energies of his ...
Doubtless there is; for there is no new thing""The thing that hath been, it ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a treatise of the fear.htm

part ii
... like a sleep until the day of resurrection, or like birth into a new life. ...
sanctification, health"and the power that protects, saves, preserves, and has ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm