Understanding the spiritual rebirth that Jesus spoke about - what it means and how it happens.
Being born again is Jesus' term for the spiritual transformation that occurs when someone becomes a Christian. Just as physical birth brings us into this world, spiritual birth brings us into God's kingdom. It's a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit that gives us new life, new desires, and a new relationship with God.
"Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God."
— John 1:12-13
When Jesus told Nicodemus he must be born again, He was explaining that entering God's kingdom requires a spiritual transformation, not just religious knowledge or good works. This new birth is a work of God's Spirit, not human effort.
"Jesus replied, 'Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.'"
— John 3:3
Being born again means receiving a new spiritual nature. God gives us a new heart, new desires, and a new capacity to understand spiritual things. We become new creations in Christ - the old has gone, the new has come.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
— 2 Corinthians 5:17
This new birth happens through the Holy Spirit when we believe in Jesus Christ. It's not something we can do ourselves - it's God's work in us. The Spirit convicts us of sin, draws us to Christ, and gives us new life.
"Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit."
— John 3:6
Being born again produces visible changes in our lives. We develop a love for God's Word, a desire to please Him, and love for other believers. While we're not perfect, there's clear evidence of God's work in our hearts.
"We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death."
— 1 John 3:14
You cannot make yourself born again through good works, religious rituals, or willpower. The new birth happens when you genuinely repent of your sins and put your faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. At that moment, God's Spirit regenerates your heart and gives you new life.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."
— Ephesians 2:8-9
If you haven't experienced this spiritual rebirth, you can ask Jesus Christ into your life today and be born again.