What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?
The phrase "born again" is often used in Christian circles, but what does it truly mean according to the Bible? Jesus used this term when speaking with Nicodemus in John 3, declaring, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3, ESV).
In the Greek text, the phrase “born again” can also mean “born from above” (gennēthē anōthen), pointing to a divine origin of this new birth — not a physical rebirth, but a spiritual one. Jesus emphasizes that entrance into God's kingdom requires more than external religion; it requires inner transformation initiated by God Himself.
A Work of the Spirit
Being born again refers to a spiritual rebirth — a work of the Holy Spirit that transforms the heart of a sinner and gives them new life in Christ. This is not something a person can achieve through willpower or religion. It is, as Jesus said, a work of God: "The wind blows where it wishes..." (John 3:8).
In John 3:8, Jesus uses a wordplay in Greek between “wind” and “Spirit” (both translated from pneuma). The mysterious nature of the Spirit’s work is likened to the wind — unseen but undeniably real and powerful. The verse underscores that regeneration is not predictable or controllable by human effort. It is entirely a sovereign act of God.
The Reformed View of Regeneration
In Reformed theology, this transformation is known as regeneration. John Calvin wrote:
“Regeneration is not only the remission of sins, but the renewing of our nature into holiness.”
This means that salvation is more than forgiveness; it’s about becoming a new person (2 Corinthians 5:17). Regeneration is monergistic — it is initiated and accomplished by God alone, not through any synergistic cooperation with man.
R.C. Sproul: A Sovereign Act of God
R.C. Sproul emphasized that regeneration precedes faith:
“We are not born again because we believe. We believe because we are born again.”
This is central to Reformed soteriology: we must be made alive spiritually before we can respond to God in faith. Ephesians 2:1 reminds us, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins…” Dead people cannot initiate their own rebirth. God must act first.
John MacArthur on the Power of the New Birth
John MacArthur explains that being born again is evidenced by a changed life:
“The new birth is not just about getting into heaven, it's about heaven coming into you now — changing your desires, your loves, and your life.”
Being born again leads to repentance, love for God's Word, and a desire to obey Him — not as a way to earn salvation, but as the result of having received it.
Voddie Baucham: Born Again to a New Identity
Voddie Baucham connects regeneration with identity and purpose:
“The born-again believer is no longer defined by sin or culture but by Christ. That’s not just a change in behavior; it’s a new creation.”
This new birth radically reorients a person’s worldview and priorities. The Christian’s identity is no longer rooted in sin, race, or social status, but in Christ alone.
Why It Matters
Being born again is essential to salvation. Jesus didn't present it as an option — it's a requirement. We must be born again to enter the kingdom of God. This is not just a religious experience, but the supernatural entrance into eternal life, accomplished by the Holy Spirit and grounded in the redemptive work of Christ.
Are You Born Again?
Have you experienced this new birth? If not, turn to Christ. Ask God to change your heart, give you faith, and make you new. As Paul says in Titus 3:5:
“He saved us... by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.”