What is new birth in christianity
In Christianity, the concept of "new birth" or "regeneration" refers to the spiritual transformation that occurs when a person becomes a Christian. It is the process by which a person is born again, or reborn, in the spirit, and becomes a new creation in Christ.
The idea of new birth is rooted in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament. In John 3:3-7, Jesus says, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. From above, you are already receiving it. The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit." In this passage, Jesus is saying that a person must be born again, or born of the Spirit, in order to see the kingdom of God.
The concept of new birth is also described in other passages, such as Ephesians 2:1-10, where Paul writes about being "raised with Christ" and "created in Christ Jesus" (Ephesians 2:5-6). In Colossians 3:1-4, Paul writes about being "raised with Christ" and "seated with him in the heavenly realms" (Colossians 3:1-4).
The new birth is often described as a sudden and dramatic change that occurs when a person puts their faith in Jesus Christ. It is a transformation that occurs in the heart and spirit, and is characterized by a newfound love for God, a desire to follow Jesus, and a sense of peace and joy that is not dependent on external circumstances.
The new birth is often contrasted with the "old self" or the "old man," which is the sinful, fallen nature that we are born with. The old self is characterized by sin, selfishness, and rebellion against God. The new birth, on the other hand, is characterized by a new nature, which is holy, righteous, and pleasing to God.
The new birth is often described as a gift from God, and is seen as a necessary step in the process of salvation. It is the means by which a person is justified, or declared righteous, before God, and is the basis for their eternal life in heaven.
Some of the key aspects of the new birth include:
- A new heart: The new birth involves a change of heart, in which a person's desires, values, and priorities are transformed.
- A new nature: The new birth involves a change of nature, in which a person's sinful, fallen nature is replaced with a new, holy, and righteous nature.
- A new identity: The new birth involves a change of identity, in which a person is no longer defined by their old self, but is now defined by their new life in Christ.
- A new relationship with God: The new birth involves a new relationship with God, in which a person is no longer a stranger to God, but is now a child of God, and is able to approach God with confidence and intimacy.
- A new life: The new birth involves a new life, in which a person is no longer bound by the limitations and constraints of the old self, but is now free to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Overall, the new birth is a central concept in Christianity, and is seen as the means by which a person is transformed from a sinful, fallen state to a new, holy, and righteous state.