Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin: The concept of being "born again" is a fundamental tenet in Christian theology, referring to a spiritual rebirth and transformation that occurs when an individual accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This term is primarily derived from the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in the Gospel of John. Jesus states, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). Biblical Context: The phrase "born again" is synonymous with regeneration, a work of the Holy Spirit in which a person is renewed and becomes a new creation in Christ. This transformation is not merely a moral or ethical change but a profound spiritual renewal. In John 3:5-7, Jesus further explains to Nicodemus, "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. Do not be amazed that I said, ‘You must be born again.’" This passage emphasizes the necessity of spiritual rebirth for salvation and entry into the kingdom of God. Theological Significance: Being born again is central to the doctrine of salvation. It signifies the beginning of a new life in Christ, marked by repentance, faith, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul elaborates on this transformation in 2 Corinthians 5:17, stating, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" . This new creation is characterized by a changed heart, renewed mind, and a life that seeks to follow Christ's teachings. Process and Experience: The experience of being born again involves a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, leading to a conscious decision to turn away from sin and embrace a life of faith. This process is often accompanied by a sense of conviction, repentance, and a desire to live according to God's will. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this transformation, as described in Titus 3:5, "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" . Implications for Christian Life: Being born again has profound implications for a believer's life. It marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of sanctification, where the individual grows in holiness and becomes more like Christ. This transformation affects every aspect of life, including relationships, priorities, and values. The Apostle Peter encourages believers in 1 Peter 1:23, "For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God" . This underscores the enduring and eternal nature of the new birth. Conclusion: The concept of being born again is a cornerstone of Christian faith, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual rebirth for salvation and a transformed life in Christ. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers are renewed and empowered to live according to God's purposes, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel. Topical Bible Verses 2 Corinthians 5:17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. Topicalbible.org John 3:1-8 1 Peter 1:23 Romans 6:6 Romans 5:8 John 3:16 John 1:12 Greek 3962. pater -- a father ... 3962 ("father") is used of our heavenly . He imparts life, from physical birth to the gift of eternal life through the birth (regeneration, being born again). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3962.htm - 8k Library These Things, Since they are Asserted Upon the Warrant of the ... Letter i. The Christian's Mark. The Gateway into the Kingdom. Making the Man. Refutation of Marcion's Objections Derived from the Cases of the ... Those Persons who do not Believe in God, but who are Disobedient ... The Great Change Bunyan's Last Sermon --Preached July 1688. Thoughts Upon Christian Education. The Necessity of Regeneration, Argued from the Immutable ... Resources What does the Bible say about being poor? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a man? | GotQuestions.org How can a Christian woman avoid being a diva? | GotQuestions.org Being: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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