The term “born again Christian” is often heard in Christian circles, yet it remains misunderstood by many. Some associate it with emotional religious experiences, while others think it refers to a certain denomination or tradition. But the words “born again” come directly from the lips of Jesus Christ Himself, and they point to something far deeper than a cultural label. They speak of a spiritual transformation that is essential for salvation. If we are to understand what it truly means to follow Christ, we must first understand what it means to be born again.
Ye Must Be Born Again
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)
Jesus spoke these words to Nicodemus, a religious leader who was well-versed in the Scriptures. Yet even he was confused by the idea of a new birth. The Lord made it plain. Without being born again, no man can even see the kingdom of God. This is not a suggestion or a denominational emphasis. It is a divine necessity. The new birth is the gateway to eternal life. It is not a secondary matter. It is the very heart of the Gospel.
Born of Water and of the Spirit
“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5)
Jesus explained further that the new birth involves two elements: water and Spirit. While interpretations vary, the most consistent with the full counsel of Scripture is that “water” refers to the cleansing power of the Word of God. Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:26 that Christ sanctifies the church “with the washing of water by the word.” The Spirit refers to the regenerating work of the Holy Ghost. Both the Word and the Spirit work together to bring about the miracle of the new birth.
A New Creation in Christ
“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)
To be born again is to become a new creature. This is not a mere change of habits or moral behavior. It is a change of nature. The old man, with his sinful desires and self-centered ways, is crucified with Christ. In his place stands a new man, created after God in righteousness and true holiness. This transformation may not be instantly visible to others, but it is very real in the eyes of God. A born again Christian is not simply reformed. He is remade.
Not of Blood, Nor of the Will of Man
“Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” (John 1:13)
No one is born again because of heritage, personal resolve, or human effort. This birth is supernatural. It is a work of God from beginning to end. Many people assume they are Christians because they grew up in a Christian home or attend church regularly. But the new birth is not passed down through bloodlines, and it cannot be manufactured by the will of man. It is a divine act, initiated and completed by the Spirit of God.
The Seed of the Word
“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” (1 Peter 1:23)
The Word of God is the seed that brings forth life. Just as natural life begins with the planting of a seed, so spiritual life begins when the Word of God is received in the heart. The Spirit gives life, but He does so through the instrument of the Word. That is why the preaching of the Gospel is so vital. Without the seed, there is no new birth. A born again Christian is someone who has heard the Word, believed it, and been quickened by the Spirit.
Regeneration by the Holy Ghost
“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;” (Titus 3:5)
The new birth is not the result of human righteousness. It is an act of divine mercy. The term “regeneration” means to be made alive again. We were dead in trespasses and sins, but the Holy Spirit came and renewed us. This washing is not external. It is internal, purifying the heart and giving new desires. A born again Christian no longer lives for self but for Christ. This change is not the product of religion. It is the fruit of regeneration.
The Spirit Bears Witness
“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.” (Romans 8:16)
One of the great blessings of being born again is the inner witness of the Spirit. Though we may doubt at times, the Spirit confirms to our hearts that we belong to God. This is not mere emotion. It is a settled assurance that comes from the presence of God Himself. A born again Christian has a new relationship with the Father. He is no longer a stranger or an enemy but a beloved child. And the Spirit whispers this truth to his soul daily.
A Changed Life
“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)
This verse does not teach sinless perfection, but it does speak of a changed direction. The one who is born again cannot continue in habitual, willful sin. The seed of God—the new nature—abides in him. When a true believer sins, he grieves. He repents. He longs for restoration. A born again Christian may stumble, but he does not walk in darkness. His heart is sensitive to sin and eager to obey the Lord. This is the fruit of a new nature.
Evidence of the New Birth
“Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” (John 3:7)
Jesus did not say this to a rebellious sinner, but to a respected religious leader. Being born again is not about fixing your life or cleaning up your behavior. It is about being given a new heart. A born again Christian loves God, desires His Word, and hungers for righteousness. He is drawn to the things of God and convicted when he strays. These are the signs of spiritual life. They are not the means of salvation, but the evidence of it.
Have You Been Born Again?
The question is not whether you are religious, sincere, or well-behaved. The question is: have you been born again? Have you experienced the supernatural work of the Spirit in your heart? Has the Word of God taken root in your soul and brought forth new life? Do you love Christ and desire to walk with Him? These are not small matters. They are the difference between life and death, Heaven and Hell, salvation and condemnation.
If you have not been born again, cry out to the Lord. Ask Him to have mercy on you, to open your eyes, and to give you a new heart. Trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ—His death, burial, and resurrection. The same Jesus who told Nicodemus “Ye must be born again” is still saving souls today. Come to Him by faith. Believe on His name. And receive the new birth that only God can give.
“That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:15)