What is a Born Again Christian? What is the Meaning and Significance of being Reborn?

What is a Born Again Christian? Meaning and Significance

The phrase “Born Again Christian” is frequently misinterpreted. Looking at its primary reference, we see that its meaning is not about physical birth but about experiencing a spiritual renewal. It is an expression many Protestants use to define the moment or process of fully accepting faith in Jesus Christ. It is an experience when the teachings of Christianity and Jesus become real, and the "born again" acquire a personal relationship with God.

The term originated from an incident in the New Testament in which the words of Jesus were not understood by a Jewish Pharisee, Nicodemus.

Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again." John 3:3 NIV

“How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” John 3:4 NIV

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. John 3:5 NIV

Born Again Christian in the Bible

The concept of being "born again" in the Bible is primarily associated with the teachings of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John. Being "born again" is a central theme in Christian theology and represents a spiritual transformation or rebirth.

In John 3:3-7 (New Testament), Jesus tells Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus is confused by this statement and asks how someone can be born again when they are already old. Jesus responds by explaining that this rebirth is not physical but spiritual, often described as being "born of the Spirit" or "born of God."

Born Again Theology

The idea of being "born again" carries several key theological and spiritual implications:

Spiritual Renewal: It signifies a transformation of one's inner self, where a person's heart and spirit are renewed by the Holy Spirit. It represents a turning away from a life of sin and a turning toward God and righteousness.
Forgiveness of Sins: Through the process of being born again, Christians believe that their sins are forgiven and that they are reconciled with God. This is often associated with repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
New Life: Being born again is seen as the start of a new life in Christ. Believers are considered new creations in Him, with old ways of thinking and living passing away, and a new way of living in accordance with God's will emerge.
Eternal Life: It is also connected to the promise of eternal life. Those who are born again are believed to have the assurance of eternal life with God in heaven.
Baptism: In many Christian traditions, baptism is seen as the outward expression of being born again. It symbolizes the washing away of sins and the emergence of a new life in Christ.

Different Christian denominations may have varying interpretations of what it means to be "born again" and how this spiritual rebirth is experienced. Some may emphasize the role of a personal confession of faith in Jesus, while others may see it as a process that unfolds over time.

In summary, being "born again" in the Bible refers to a profound spiritual transformation, a new birth in Christ, which leads to forgiveness of sins, reconciliation with God, and the promise of eternal life. It is a fundamental concept in Christian theology and has significant implications for the life and beliefs of Christians.

What does it Mean to be Born Again?

Christianity.com: What does it mean to be born again?-Colin Smith from christianitydotcom2 on GodTube.

How to be Born Again

The phrase “born again” applies to people who have accepted Jesus as their Savior or Redeemer. The born-again soul realizes that they are a sinner (Romans 3:23) and that the penalty for that sin is death (Romans 6:23). To rectify the circumstances, God sent His only Son to die in their place, to take the punishment for sin (Romans 5:8). After Jesus’ death, He arose from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:3-6). Jesus is the only way to God (John 14:6), and He provides the blessing of salvation. Each person can receive or reject God’s gift through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9) and experience new birth (John 3:1-8). Whoever follows Jesus as Christ, the Son of God, and has accepted His gift of life can be called a Christian. That is where the journey of rebirth begins.

By being born again, renewing our minds, and having a close relationship with God, we can grow spiritually by spending time in His presence and studying His Word (the Bible). Even though we may not be able to fully understand God, His Spirit dwells within us, providing us with a deep comprehension of His nature and His ways.

Emotions

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice” (Ephesians 4:29, 31).

Born-again Christians are not to let their emotions control their behavior. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” In Him, we have peace.

Will of God

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us” (1 John 5:14).

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).

Sources:
AllAboutReligion.org