What is Regeneration?

Показать описание

The Christian doctrine of regeneration is a theological concept that refers to the process of spiritual rebirth or renewal. It is a fundamental aspect of Christian theology, particularly within Protestant and Reformed traditions. The concept is closely tied to the idea of salvation and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.

Here are some key points associated with the Christian doctrine of regeneration: 1. Spiritual Deadness: The doctrine of regeneration is often grounded in the belief that, due to sin, human beings are spiritually dead or separated from God. This spiritual deadness is seen as a consequence of the fall of humanity, as described in the biblical narrative of Adam and Eve. 2. Divine Initiative: Regeneration is considered a work initiated by God. In this view, it is not something that humans can achieve on their own through good deeds or efforts. Instead, it is the result of God's grace and mercy. 3. Role of the Holy Spirit: Regeneration is understood as a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit, who brings about a radical transformation in the individual. The Holy Spirit is believed to convict individuals of their sin, grant them repentance, and give them new spiritual life. 4. New Birth: The term "regeneration" is often used interchangeably with "new birth" or "born again." This reflects the biblical language found in passages such as John 3:3, where Jesus tells Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." 5. Faith and a change of mind: Regeneration is associated with faith and repentance (meaning a change of mind). As individuals experience the work of the Holy Spirit, they are said to respond with genuine faith in Jesus Christ and to change their mind from unbelief to belief. Note: "Turning from sins" for salvation is a concept that is not taught in the Christian Bible. 6. Eternal Life: The ultimate goal of regeneration is seen as the bestowal of eternal life. Through regeneration, believers are considered to be reconciled with God, adopted into His family, and assured of the hope of eternal life.

John 3:3: Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."

John 3:5-6: Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit."

Titus 3:5: He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.

1 Peter 1:3: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

John 1:12-13: But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

Even the Old Testament speaks of regeneration. In Ezekiel 36:25-27: I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.

PLEASE NOTE: Some heretical groups claim regeneration PRECEDES faith. This is wrong. Regeneration follows, and is a result of, belief (faith). The work of the Holy Spirit is to call, convict, and persuade one to believe... not to regenerate one so they CAN believe.

It's important to note that different Christian denominations and traditions may have variations in their understanding of regeneration. A close study of the Bible will guide one to the truth. While it is a central concept in many evangelical and Reformed theological frameworks, other Christian traditions may emphasize different aspects of the salvation process. We at EZ salvation recognize the Doctrine of regeneration as a central pillar of our Christian faith. Thanks for stopping by!