What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?
What Does It Mean to Be Born Again? Being born again is a spiritual rebirth — the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit that gives a person new spiritual life, enabling them to see and enter God's kingdom.
Key verse: John 3:3 (KJV)
Being born again is a spiritual rebirth — the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit that gives a person new spiritual life, enabling them to see and enter God's kingdom.
Being born again is a spiritual rebirth — the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit that gives a person new spiritual life, enabling them to see and enter God's kingdom.
"Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." — John 3:3 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
Jesus told Nicodemus, 'Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God' (John 3:3). Nicodemus was confused, asking about physical rebirth. Jesus clarified, 'That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit' (John 3:6). The new birth is not reformation, education, or religious ritual — it is a divine act of re-creation. Titus 3:5 describes it as 'the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.' First Peter 1:23 says we are 'born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God.' Second Corinthians 5:17 declares, 'If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.' The new birth produces new desires, new affections, and new capacity for spiritual understanding. It is evidenced by love for God, love for other believers (1 John 4:7), and a changed life. Being born again is not optional — Jesus said it is essential for entering God's kingdom.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About The Holy Spirit?
What the Bible teaches about the Holy Spirit, His work, and His role in the believer's life.
Key Scripture References
"Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."
"That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit."
"If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Is the Gospel?
The gospel is the 'good news' that Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, offering salvation to all who believe.
What Does the Bible Say About Grace?
Grace is God's unmerited favor — the free gift of salvation and blessing that cannot be earned but is received through faith in Jesus Christ.
Who Is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity — fully God, who indwells, guides, and empowers believers.
What Is the Unforgivable Sin?
The unforgivable sin, or blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, is the persistent, willful rejection of the Spirit's testimony about Jesus Christ.
Why Did Jesus Have to Die on the Cross?
Jesus died as a substitutionary sacrifice to pay the penalty for human sin and reconcile humanity to God.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
Charles Wesley • 1739
Read it in context
The answer above sits inside John. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read John on day 302 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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