What does "born again" mean in John 3:3, and how is it achieved? Setting the Scene: John 3:3 “Jesus replied, ‘Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’” What “Born Again” Means • A second birth—spiritual, not physical • A work of God’s Spirit that imparts new life (John 3:5-8) • Entry point into God’s kingdom, enabling sight and participation in spiritual realities • A decisive, once-for-all change of nature (2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Peter 1:23) Why a New Birth Is Needed • Humanity is “dead in transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1) • Sin separates people from God (Isaiah 59:2; Romans 3:23) • Moral efforts cannot bridge the gap; life must be given from above (Titus 3:5) How the New Birth Is Achieved 1. God’s Initiative – “He saved us… through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5) – The Spirit applies Christ’s finished work to the heart (John 3:8) 2. The Gospel Message – Christ’s death and resurrection provide the basis for forgiveness (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) – “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17) 3. Personal Response • Repentance—turning from sin toward God (Acts 3:19) • Faith—trusting Jesus alone for salvation (John 1:12-13; Acts 16:31) 4. Resulting Transformation – New identity as God’s child (Galatians 4:6-7) – Indwelling Spirit empowering holy living (Romans 8:9-11) – Eternal security and hope (1 John 5:11-13) Evidence of Being Born Again • Ongoing love for God and others (1 John 4:7) • Desire for righteousness and obedience (1 John 2:29) • Inner witness of the Spirit assuring salvation (Romans 8:15-16) • Perseverance in faith (Philippians 1:6) Living Out the New Birth • Continual renewal by Scripture and prayer (Colossians 3:16) • Active fellowship with believers (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Bold witness to Christ’s saving power (2 Corinthians 5:20) |
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