How can we apply the concept of being "born again" in daily life? Key Passage: John 3:3–8 “Jesus replied, ‘Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’ … ‘Flesh is born of flesh, but spirit is born of the Spirit’”. What it Means to Be Born Again • A real, Spirit-wrought rebirth, not a metaphor or mere decision (John 3:6–7). • God implants new life that is “imperishable” (1 Peter 1:23). • The old self dies; a new creation emerges (2 Corinthians 5:17). Daily Mind-Set: Start Each Day in Your New Identity • Thank the Lord that you are already alive in Christ. • Reject old labels—“sinner,” “failure,” “slave to habits.” Embrace “child of God,” “new creation,” “heir with Christ.” Renew the Inner Life Continually • Immerse yourself in Scripture; God’s “living and enduring word” sustains the new birth (1 Peter 1:23). • Memorize and meditate on verses that define your new nature (Romans 12:2). Walk in the Spirit, Not the Flesh • Yield moment-by-moment decisions to the Spirit’s prompting (Galatians 5:16). • When temptation strikes, remind yourself, “I have been crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20). Practice Ongoing Repentance • Confess sin quickly; don’t let the old nature reclaim territory (1 John 1:9). • Replace the sin with Spirit-filled action (Ephesians 4:22–24). Cultivate New Affections • Choose music, books, entertainment, and conversations that fan spiritual desires (Philippians 4:8). • Celebrate every evidence of new life—joy in worship, hunger for truth, love for others. Serve and Love the Family of God • Born-again believers instinctively love fellow believers (1 John 3:14). • Join a local church, use your gifts, meet tangible needs (1 Peter 4:10). Witness Out of Your New Life • Share how Christ changed you; new birth stories authenticate the gospel (John 4:28–30). • Pray for others to experience the same rebirth (Titus 3:5). Persevere with Eternal Perspective • Trials refine the life God planted in you (James 1:2–3). • Fix your hope on the inheritance “kept in heaven” for the born-again (1 Peter 1:3–4). Takeaway Being born again is not only the doorway into God’s kingdom; it is the fountainhead of a daily, Spirit-empowered life. Live from the new heart He has given, and let every choice, habit, and relationship testify that you have truly been born of God. |
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