Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "new birth," also known as being "born again," is a fundamental tenet of Christian theology, emphasizing the transformative process by which an individual becomes a new creation in Christ. This spiritual rebirth is not merely for the benefit of the individual but ultimately serves the glory of God. The new birth is a divine act that showcases God's grace, mercy, and power, reflecting His glory in the life of the believer.Biblical Foundation The term "born again" is most famously articulated in the Gospel of John, where Jesus explains to Nicodemus the necessity of being born of water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God: "Jesus replied, 'Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again'" (John 3:3). This passage underscores the spiritual transformation required to become a child of God, highlighting the divine initiative in the process. Purpose and Divine Glory The new birth is not an end in itself but a means to manifest God's glory. In Ephesians 1:5-6, the Apostle Paul writes, "He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the Beloved One" . Here, the purpose of the new birth is linked to the praise of God's glorious grace, indicating that the transformation of believers serves to magnify His divine attributes. Transformation and Witness The new birth results in a profound transformation that bears witness to God's power and love. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" . This transformation is a testament to God's ability to renew and restore, serving as a living testimony to His glory. The believer's new life in Christ becomes a beacon that points others to the greatness of God. Sanctification and Holiness The process of sanctification, which follows the new birth, further glorifies God as believers grow in holiness and Christlikeness. In Philippians 1:11, Paul prays that believers may be "filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" . The ongoing work of sanctification in the life of a believer is a reflection of God's glory, as it demonstrates His continued work and presence in the world. Corporate Aspect and the Church The new birth also has a corporate dimension, as it brings individuals into the body of Christ, the Church. The unity and diversity of the Church, composed of those who have experienced the new birth, serve to glorify God. In 1 Peter 2:9, believers are described as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" . The collective witness of the Church, made up of born-again believers, is a powerful testament to God's glory. Conclusion The new birth is a profound and transformative event that serves the ultimate purpose of glorifying God. Through the individual and corporate witness of believers, the grace, mercy, and power of God are displayed to the world, fulfilling His divine purpose and bringing honor to His name. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 43:7Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yes, I have made him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The New Birth The Marks of the New Birth Suffering the Birth-Pains of a New Life. The New-Birth On Living Without God God Rejoicing in the New Creation New Testament Hymns The Believer a New Creature The Birth of Jesus Proclaimed by Angels to the Shepherds. Preface. And as to Christ Thy Lord Resources What is the New Age movement? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the New Apostolic Church, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org Old Testament vs. New Testament - What are the differences? | 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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