Outreach FAQs: What the Bible Says About the Need to Be Born Again

The concept of being "born again" is central to the teachings of the Bible and is foundational to the Christian faith. Jesus Himself emphasised the necessity of this spiritual rebirth, making it clear that without it, no one can enter the kingdom of God. This article explores what the Bible says about the need to be born again, highlighting its significance and the transformation it brings to a believer's life.

What the Bible says about the need to be born again

Jesus’ Declaration: "Ye Must Be Born Again"

The phrase "born again" comes directly from Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews. Jesus declared, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Nicodemus, confused by this statement, asked how a person could be born a second time. Jesus explained, “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit” (John 3:6).

This spiritual rebirth is not a physical event but a work of the Holy Spirit, transforming a person’s heart and aligning them with God’s will. Jesus further clarified, “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again” (John 3:7). The need to be born again is universal, applying to all people regardless of background or status.

A New Heart and a New Spirit

The Bible describes the transformative power of being born again as receiving a new heart and a new spirit. In the Old Testament, God promised this renewal through the prophet Ezekiel: “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh” (Ezekiel 36:26). This promise points to the work of the Holy Spirit in cleansing and renewing the believer’s inner being.

Paul echoes this theme in the New Testament, writing, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This new creation is the result of God’s transformative power, changing the believer’s desires, thoughts, and actions to reflect His righteousness.

The Work of the Holy Spirit

Being born again is a supernatural act of God, accomplished through the Holy Spirit. Jesus explained, “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). The Holy Spirit convicts individuals of their sin, leads them to repentance, and brings them into a new relationship with God.

Titus 3:5 highlights this work, stating, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” This verse underscores that salvation and spiritual rebirth are entirely the work of God’s grace and mercy, not human effort.

The Evidence of Being Born Again

A person who is born again experiences a profound change in their life. This transformation is evident in their love for God, obedience to His commandments, and love for others. John writes, “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God” (1 John 3:9). While this does not mean that believers become sinless, it signifies a break from habitual sin and a desire to live in righteousness.

Jesus also said, “By their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:20). The fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance (Galatians 5:22-23)—are evident in the lives of those who have been born again.

The Urgency of Being Born Again

The Bible stresses the urgency of being born again. Paul writes, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). This urgency arises from the reality of eternal judgment and the need for reconciliation with God. Jesus warned, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36).

In Summary

What the Bible says about the need to be born again is both clear and compelling. It is not merely a suggestion but an absolute necessity for anyone who desires to enter the kingdom of God. This spiritual rebirth, brought about by the Holy Spirit, gives believers a new heart, a new spirit, and a transformed life. As Jesus declared, “Ye must be born again” (John 3:7). Let this truth lead us to examine our hearts and seek the new life that only Christ can provide.

Are you born again? Watch our video to below to find out. Are you seeking to know more about the Christian faith? Contact us for a free Bible and more information.

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