Topical Encyclopedia The concept of being "regenerated into" a new image is deeply rooted in Christian theology, particularly in the context of spiritual rebirth and transformation through Jesus Christ. This transformation is often described as a renewal of the believer's nature, aligning them more closely with the image of God as originally intended before the fall of humanity.Biblical Foundation The idea of regeneration is closely associated with the New Testament teachings on being "born again." In John 3:3, Jesus tells Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This rebirth is not of the flesh but of the Spirit, signifying a profound transformation that reorients the believer's life towards God. Image of God The concept of being made in the "image of God" is introduced in Genesis 1:27: "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This image was marred by sin, but through Christ, believers are regenerated and progressively restored to this divine likeness. Regeneration Through Christ The Apostle Paul speaks extensively about this transformation. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, he writes, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This passage highlights the radical change that occurs when one is regenerated into the image of Christ, leaving behind the old sinful nature. Sanctification and Renewal Regeneration is closely linked with sanctification, the process by which believers are made holy. In Romans 8:29, Paul explains, "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers." This conformity to Christ's image is an ongoing process, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in regeneration. Titus 3:5 states, "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." The Spirit works within believers to renew their minds and hearts, enabling them to live in accordance with God's will. Practical Implications Being regenerated into the image of Christ has practical implications for daily living. Colossians 3:10 encourages believers to "put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." This involves a continual process of spiritual growth, characterized by the fruits of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23. Eschatological Hope The ultimate fulfillment of being regenerated into the image of God is eschatological. 1 John 3:2 offers hope: "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is." This future transformation assures believers of their complete restoration to God's image. In summary, the concept of being "regenerated into" a new image is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's work and the Holy Spirit's ongoing renewal in the life of the believer. Through this process, Christians are progressively conformed to the image of Christ, reflecting God's original design and purpose for humanity. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 17:15As for me, I will behold your face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with your likeness. Nave's Topical Index Romans 8:29 2 Corinthians 3:18 Ephesians 4:24 Colossians 3:10 1 John 3:1-3 Library Christ Assumed Actual Flesh, Conceived and Born of the virgin. The Difference Between the Two Testaments. State in which Man was Created. The Faculties of the Soul --The ... Faustus Explains the Manich??an Denial that Man was Made by God as ... The Christian Assisted in Examining into his Growth in Grace. Invention of the Lyre; Allegorizing the Appearance and Position of ... The Instructor Characterized by the Severity and Benignity of ... The Corruption of Man, his Conversion to God, and the Manner ... Holy Raiment of One's Own Weaving. Frances Power Cobbe. Resources What is man / mankind / humanity? | GotQuestions.orgHow do I get the image of God as imposing and angry out of my mind? | GotQuestions.org What is human nature? What does the Bible say about human nature? | GotQuestions.org Image: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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