What does "was dead and is alive again" signify about spiritual rebirth? Setting the scene Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) climaxes with the father’s jubilant words: “For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” (Luke 15:24). The statement is not poetic exaggeration. It reflects a divine reality: apart from God, every person exists in a state Scripture calls “death,” and only God’s grace can bring true life. What “was dead” means •Separated from the Father’s presence and blessings (Isaiah 59:2). •Unable to produce spiritual fruit (John 15:5-6). •Under the dominion of sin and the certainty of judgment (Romans 6:23). •Described by Paul as being “dead in your trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). What “is alive again” means •Restored fellowship with the Father—accepted, clothed, and celebrated (Luke 15:22-24). •Regeneration: the impartation of new spiritual life by the Holy Spirit (John 3:3-6; Titus 3:5). •A present reality, not merely future hope: “We have passed from death to life” (1 John 3:14). •Union with the risen Christ: “Even when we were dead in our trespasses, God made us alive together with Christ” (Ephesians 2:5). Key truths about spiritual rebirth highlighted by the phrase •It is entirely initiated by the Father’s grace; the son’s return is met with the Father’s running embrace (Luke 15:20). •Rebirth involves repentance—turning from sin and self-rule to God’s loving authority (Luke 15:17-19). •The new life is celebrated; heaven rejoices when a sinner repents (Luke 15:7, 10). •The change is total: status, identity, and destiny are transformed (2 Corinthians 5:17). Supporting Scriptures that echo the same pattern •John 5:24 – “Whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life … he has crossed over from death to life.” •Colossians 2:13 – “When you were dead in your trespasses … God made you alive with Christ.” •Romans 6:11 – “Count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” Living as the restored child •Enjoy the Father’s presence daily—prayer, worship, Scripture. •Walk in obedience, not returning to the “far country” of sin (Romans 6:12-14). •Bear fruit that confirms the reality of new life—love, holiness, service (John 15:8; Galatians 5:22-23). •Extend the same mercy to others, reflecting the Father’s heart toward every prodigal (Ephesians 4:32). The proclamation “was dead and is alive again” declares the miracle of regeneration: God takes those spiritually dead, breathes life into them through Christ, and welcomes them home forever. |
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