Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "new birth," often referred to as being "born again," is a fundamental tenet in Christian theology, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual regeneration due to the inherent corruption of human nature. This doctrine is rooted in the belief that all humans are born with a sinful nature, a condition that necessitates divine intervention for reconciliation with God.Biblical Foundation The necessity of the new birth is explicitly stated in the New Testament. In John 3:3, Jesus declares to Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This passage underscores the essential nature of spiritual rebirth as a prerequisite for entering God's kingdom. The term "born again" (Greek: γεννηθῇ ἄνωθεν, gennēthē anōthen) implies a birth from above, indicating a transformation that is both spiritual and divine in origin. The Corruption of Human Nature The doctrine of original sin, as articulated in passages such as Romans 5:12, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned," highlights the pervasive impact of Adam's transgression on humanity. This inherited sin nature is further described in Ephesians 2:3, where Paul writes, "All of us also lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature children of wrath." The corruption of human nature is not merely a theological abstraction but a lived reality, manifesting in the propensity toward sin and rebellion against God. This condition renders humanity incapable of achieving righteousness through its own efforts, as stated in Romans 3:10, "There is no one righteous, not even one." The Role of the Holy Spirit The new birth is a work of the Holy Spirit, who regenerates and renews the believer. In John 3:5-6, Jesus explains, "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 highlights the transformative work of the Spirit, who imparts new life and enables believers to live in accordance with God's will. Titus 3:5 further elucidates this process: "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." The imagery of washing signifies cleansing from sin, while renewal indicates a fundamental change in nature. Implications for Believers The new birth results in a profound transformation in the believer's life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation involves a reorientation of desires, affections, and actions, aligning them with the character and purposes of God. The new birth also establishes a personal relationship with God, as believers are adopted into His family. Romans 8:15-16 affirms, "For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children." Conclusion The new birth is an indispensable aspect of Christian salvation, addressing the deep-seated corruption of human nature and enabling individuals to enter into a restored relationship with God. Through the regenerative work of the Holy Spirit, believers are transformed into new creations, empowered to live lives that reflect the holiness and love of their Creator. Torrey's Topical Textbook John 3:6That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 8:7,8 Library Regeneration the Work of God. The Creation of Terrestrial Animals. The Historical Books. 1 the New Testament... Every Thing Proceeding from the Corrupt Nature of Man Damnable. Articles of Religion of the Reformed Episcopal Church in America. ... Of Creation in General. Preface to Volume i. Of the Edinburgh Edition. An Humble, Affectionate, and Earnest Address to the Clergy Christianity All Mankind Guilty; Or, Every Man Knows More than He Practises. 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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