Regeneration

From Death to Life: Understanding the Miracle of Regeneration

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be “born again”? As a pastor who has been preaching for 40 years, I’ve come to realize that this concept of regeneration is not just a theological term, but a life-changing reality that every Christian needs to understand. Let’s dive into this transformative truth together.

The Miracle of New Life

Imagine a barren field suddenly bursting into bloom, or a caterpillar emerging as a beautiful butterfly. These natural transformations pale in comparison to the spiritual regeneration that occurs when God breathes new life into a soul dead in sin. As I shared in my recent sermon:

“Regeneration is really the term being born again… Jesus answered him, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God'” (John 3:3).

This miraculous change is not something we can manufacture or work for. It’s entirely a work of God’s grace. As I emphasized in my message:

“If you have been regenerated, God is the one who has regenerated you. It’s not something you have manufactured or you’ve hoped or you’ve worked for.”

Understanding Regeneration

To help us grasp this concept, let’s break it down:

1. Regeneration Defined

Theologian J.I. Packer describes regeneration as “God renovating the heart, the core of a person’s being, by implanting a new principle of desire, purpose, and action.” It’s a complete overhaul of our spiritual DNA.

2. Regeneration Illustrated

The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3 beautifully illustrates this concept. Even though Nicodemus was a religious leader, he struggled to understand what Jesus meant by being “born again.” This reminds us that regeneration is not about religious knowledge or good works, but a supernatural work of God’s Spirit.

3. Regeneration Exhibited

How can we tell if someone has been regenerated? The book of 1 John gives us several indicators:

• Belief in and love for God (1 John 5:1)
• Love for other believers (1 John 4:7)
• A changed life (1 John 2:29)
• Victory over sin and the world (1 John 5:4)

As I said in my sermon, “When God changes us, we have a love for God and we love one another because people have a heart for God.”

The Assurance of New Birth

One of the most encouraging aspects of regeneration is its permanence. Just as we are only physically born once, we only need to be spiritually born once. I emphasized this point in my message:

“If you have been regenerated once, you’ve been regenerated. There’s no ‘oops.’ If God has changed you and made you new, you’ve been regenerated, and you don’t have to go back and be regenerated again and again.”

This truth gives us assurance in our salvation and confidence in God’s transforming power.

Putting It Into Practice

So how do we apply this truth to our daily lives? Here are some practical steps:

1. Examine your heart: Have you truly been born again? Does your life exhibit the signs of regeneration?
2. Praise God for His work: If you have been regenerated, take time to thank God for His amazing grace in making you new.
3. Share the good news: Remember, we never know when and how God is working in someone’s heart. Keep sharing the gospel, even when people don’t seem to “get it” right away.
4. Live out your new identity: Allow the reality of your regeneration to shape your choices, relationships, and priorities.

As we conclude, I want to leave you with this challenge: “Search your heart this morning. Has God made your heart, your life, your passion, your desires new? Is your life exhibiting a heart that has been regenerated?”

May we all live in the joy and power of our new life in Christ, continually amazed by the miracle of regeneration.