What Does It Mean To Be Born Again?

What Does It Mean To Be Born Again?

What does it mean to be born again? When Jimmy Carter ran for president in 1976 he called himself a “Born Again” Christian. But Jesus first used the term in his conversation with Nicodemus recorded in John 3:1-21. Here are some thoughts on what it means for us today.

What does it mean to be born again? It means you recognize there’s an entrance requirement to heaven a lot of people are missing

V. 3 …unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.

The term “born again” was a new idea when Jimmy Carter used it and it was new for Nicodemus too. His confused reaction proves it. Probably because he assumed he already met those qualifications. After all, he was a faithful Jew. Even better, a faithful Pharisee. But Jesus throws him a curve ball by saying that something else is involved.

The whole “born again” idea confuses people today as well. They assume if you believe in God and Jesus, maybe attend church and do good things it makes you a Christian. But here, Jesus says that is not enough. It actually involves a second birth.

What does it mean to be born again? It means you understand there are two different kinds of birth

V. 5 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 

Jesus presents a spiritual idea that Nicodemus doesn’t even recognize as a spiritual idea. A bit ironic don’t you think? Here he is, an expert teacher in the Jewish religion, completely baffled by what Jesus says. He asks Jesus if he is talking about a physical birth.

He had to know that was not what Jesus meant. But Nicodemus was so blind to his own spiritual need, and so unaware of that blindness, he could not even consider the possibility that his spiritual life was missing something. What was Jesus talking about?

Jesus clarifies it in John 3:6-8 by talking about two births: a physical one and a spiritual one. And what Nicodemus lacks is spiritual.

There’s a similar spiritual blindness affecting people today. Rather than concede their good and virtuous acts are not what Jesus is looking for, they simply ignore this passage.

Jesus must be talking about the jerk who lives down the road. But look closer. He’s talking about all of us.

It means you believe in and follow Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord

V. 14 As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

Jesus chastises Nicodemus as a teacher for his lack of understanding, but then patiently reminds him that he came to sacrifice himself on a cross. And it makes you wonder. Why did Nicodemus not know this? Because Isaiah prophesized extensively about what the Messiah would suffer.

And the answer for Nicodemus is probably similar to many people today. It’s because we form our religious beliefs around our own opinions and lifestyles rather than the truth of scripture. The Bible consistently teaches about the existence of sin. And the result of sin is spiritual death. And that is an unpleasant thought we’d rather not face.

But Jesus suddenly switches to the positive. And rather talk about death he promises life with probably the best known and quoted scripture in the entire Bible.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 

And that is what it means to be BORN AGAIN.

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.

Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group??

Check out Philippians Bible Study For Individuals and Groups.

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle: Part Two

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle: Part Two

God’s equipment for spiritual battle is described in the book of Ephesians 6:10-18. It’s commonly known among Christians as Putting On the Armor of God.

It represents God’s protection for Christ-followers when fighting spiritual battles. In part one, I covered the first three pieces of armor. Here are the other pieces.

God’s equipment for spiritual battle takes up the shield of faith

The Roman shield was large enough to cover the entire body. It was made of wood and bound together at the top and bottom with metal bands. And when dipped in water, could extinguish flaming arrows from the enemy.

What are those fiery darts Paul describes in v.16?

The possibilities are endless and different for all of us. But probably best represented by the areas where you are most vulnerable to attack.

Perhaps the doubt, fear, or discouragement the enemy jabs at you. A bad habit you can’t conquer. The lies he whispers in your ear about yourself. Or hurtful words hurled at you by someone else.

Faith is your vote of confidence in God. A reminder you are covered by God’s grace. Secure in God’s love and the assurance He has your back. And destined for His eternal presence.

God’s equipment for spiritual battle includes the helmet of salvation

Satan tries to get into your head. Mess with your mind. Psych you out. He knows if you are saved through Jesus Christ, he can’t pluck you out of God’s hand. Your eternal destiny is secure. So his strategy is to confuse you. Confound you. And drag you down through sin so you’re ineffective for God’s Kingdom.

But knowing your salvation is secure gives you confidence in your fight. Because even though you are still a sinner, and will continue to sin, God’s power helps you resist temptations. And win some of those sin battles too.

In other words, the helmet of salvation is eternal, but also saves you from the power of sin in this life. And encourages you to press on in the fight.

God’s equipment for spiritual battle wields the sword of the spirit

The Bible is God’s word. His truth. And final authority on all subject matter related to this life. God promises it won’t return to him void.

It is your one offensive weapon in spiritual battles. And it’s impossible for Satan to refute. But be warned. He also knows it well and will twist its meaning to serve his purpose. Satan’s allies will do the same.

But it was the authority Jesus turned to when he was tempted by Satan. And King David kept close for use in his own spiritual battles.

Because God’s word penetrates to the soul. Judges the heart. And reveals God’s love and purpose for mankind. Rather than fight in the power of human reasoning, it equips you with the truth and wisdom of God.

Study it. Seek to know it. And memorize it. Because it is THE ANSWER, when you don’t have an answer.

Prayer is not equipment but is critical in spiritual warfare

Prayer may not be equipment, but it is a valuable weapon in spiritual battles. Because it aligns you with the will of God. Activates His power. And keeps you in His safeguarding presence.

More than simply regular habit. It should be a constant conversation with your eternal, loving Father.

Your direct source to God for His strength in the fight.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.

Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group??

Check out Philippians Bible Study For Individuals and Groups.

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle: Part One

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle: Part One

God’s equipment for spiritual battle is described in the Bible book of Ephesians 6:10-18. It reminds Christ-followers of a real, spiritual enemy. And describes the spiritual armor God provides for battle when he attacks.

Paul begins in V.10 by urging Christ-followers to Be Strong in the Lord. Although, a more literal translation is Be strengthened in the Lord.

In other words, you don’t fight alone! God’s Spirit is with you, empowering you in the fight.

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle Fastens On The Belt Of Truth…

Scholars say Paul wrote Ephesians while imprisoned in Rome and likely chained to a Roman soldier, which explains where the analogy comes from. And the first piece of God’s equipment for spiritual battle he describes is the belt of truth.

The RSV Bible translates it having girded your loins with truth gives a better picture of Paul’s meaning. Because common clothing of the day featured flowing robes that had to be gathered up to engage in physical activity. In essence, Paul tells Christ-followers to prepare yourself. Gather up your clothes and tighten on the belt of truth to hold them in place so you’re ready to fight.

But what kind of truth?

The Greek word aletheia, means a reality that is firm, solid, and true. And in this context suggests individual character and integrity.

It represents your core. And where you find balance. Although it’s not your own truth, but is based on God’s truth. Trusting His absolute integrity. And a willingness to stand firm and fight for it.

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle Wears A Breast Plate Of Righteousness

Imputed righteousness is an important Christian doctrine. That we’re all sinners, but the perfect righteousness of Jesus is imputed to you when you accept him as Savior and Lord.

And yet, you’re called to strive for righteousness. Imitate the life of Jesus. And demonstrate upright character by living according to God’s law.

However, the emphasis is not on how well you attain personal righteousness, but your devotion to God’s law. And this involves balance. By accepting God’s grace of salvation, knowing you can’t achieve perfect righteousness, but still striving for a life that honors God.

This means guarding your heart by diligently controlling what you let enter and stay. And exercising healthy, spiritual practices that include regularly consuming the Word of God.

God’s Equipment For Spiritual Battle Wears Shoes Given By The Gospel Of Peace

It seems strange that in the middle of a fight, Paul talks about peace. We’re supposed to witness in the middle of combat? And yet, it’s clearly an important part of our mission. After all, sharing the gospel message was in Jesus’ last instructions before ascending to heaven.

Because Jesus is the only path to peace with God. And the hope Peter encourages Christ-followers to readily share.

However, the Greek noun hetoimasia, also means preparation in the sense of a prepared foundation. In other words, the gospel provides a sense of peace that presents firm footing in the battle.

In either case, the gospel of peace is part of God’s protective equipment when the enemy attacks.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.

What Direction Is Your Spiritual Life Tilting?

What Direction Is Your Spiritual Life Tilting?

What direction is your spiritual life tilting? Because more than likely, it’s leaning one direction or another.

Sure. It’s nice to think your spiritual life is like a rocket shooting straight up to heaven. But it never seems to work out that way.

On two days of the first week in March, it snowed in Dayton, Ohio. I looked outside at the white blanket covering the landscape and thought this isn’t supposed to be happening. It’s March. The official start of spring is only a few weeks away.

It had been a cold winter and I longed for warmth. So I reminded myself that despite the look of winter, spring was on the way.

Temperatures would rise. Flowers and greenery bloom. Yard work begin. Okay, perhaps I could tone down the enthusiasm just a bit.

The point is, time marches on and the engagement of a well-established, physical laws inevitable…

The northern hemisphere of earth warms as it tilts toward the sun. I learned this in 6th grade science.

Amazing I remember that lesson from decades ago, but clueless on where I put my cell phone last night.

One of life’s great paradoxes.

There’s a parallel, spiritual law at work too. It explains why your spiritual life lacks power. Your faith feels cold. And God’s voice sounds distant.

What direction is your spiritual life tilting? When you tilt away from the Son.

How do you know when you’re tilting away from Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

Well, I can’t speak for you, but when I tilt away from Christ my spiritual life takes on a passive posture. And I tend to become a spiritual spectator. Waiting on, expecting God to act. A petulant child demanding my Father to deliver.

Worship becomes a feel-good sensation that lasts a few hours, rather than a dynamic, personal connection with a living God that empowers me throughout the week.

Why is this an indicator of spiritual life tilting?

Because God is never passive. He’s always active. Always. So if he’s not active in my life then it’s not His problem. It’s mine.

What I’ve learned is that the Kingdom of God doesn’t come TO me, it comes THROUGH me. And tilting towards Him is the warming trend that initiates the process.

So what does spiritual life tilting look like?

It begins in my spiritual disciplines. We say it all the time at church.

Spend time in His Word… In prayer…In applying His word to my life.

Okay, so I’m not always sure where and how God is working. That’s part of the faith journey. But when I spiritually tilt toward Him, I sense the warmth of His presence. Assurance of His love. And confidence that His ultimate plan and purpose will unfold. And that too, is inevitable.

So if your faith feels cold. God is remote. And you’re trudging along on a treadmill of meaningless, spiritual activity. One small, intentional move could make a big difference.

Tilt forward.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is a freelance copywriter, published author, playwright and pastor. He publishes drama at www.chiptudor.com, books on Amazon.com, and articles on his blog.

Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group??

Check out Philippians Bible Study For Individuals and Groups.

Is Your Christian Faith Fit or Flabby?

Is Your Christian Faith Fit or Flabby?

Is your Christian faith fit or flabby? Spiritual health is comparable to physical health. It’s better when you exercise it. Here are three benchmarks to measure your spiritual fitness.

Is your Christian faith fit or flabby? A fit faith makes a commitment to Jesus Christ.

If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. (ESV, Matthew 16:24)

Faith, by nature, involves a risk. And exercising Christian faith includes practices and spiritual disciplines that train disciples in righteousness. Similar to the fitness training of athletes pursuing their sport.

And when you commit to following Jesus Christ, you carry a cross that includes adversity. Especially from the secular culture and scoffers who claim Christianity is a crutch for the weak minded. Because while you find purpose and satisfaction in imitating the life of Jesus, obeying his commands, and pursuing holiness, few people will commend you for it. But rather, despise, ridicule, and persecute you.

Furthermore, you relinquish two things the human heart holds dear. Pride and self-reliance. And exercise faith by humbly and confidently moving forward and trusting the God who keeps His promises.

Is Your Christian Faith Fit or Flabby? A fit faith moves from belief to action.

So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. (ESV, James 2:17-18)

Belief in Jesus is where you start. But not where you stay. Because genuine, deeply held belief always moves to action. And actions are what James is talking about. Not that good works save you, but they demonstrate through Godly actions, the salvation you’ve received. A follower of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord who strives to imitate his life.

This is why regular, spiritual disciplines of Bible study, prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers are so important. They build God’s truth into your life and equip you to live out your faith.

Is your Christian faith fit or flabby? A fit faith embraces obedience.

The Bible is God’s word for living as a disciple of Jesus. And his followers strive to obey it.

In a day of my rights, my truth, and me, myself and I, obedience is an unpopular aspect of the Christian faith. And for many, an absolute, Christianity deal breaker. But it’s the difference between worshiping the Almighty God and worshiping yourself as a god.

Because the Christian faith acts on God’s truth and seeks His Kingdom. And when you commit to it there are some pretty awesome benefits.

Like as you exercise faith, your capacity for even greater faith increases. You experience more joy and sense of eternal purpose. And you suddenly see and recognize God’s Spirit working in amazing ways.

So if your spiritual life seems dull and powerless. In a spiritual rut rather than a growing relationship. Consider restructuring your sedentary spiritual routine into a Divinely focused, fitness regime.

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.

Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group??

Check out Philippians Bible Study For Individuals and Groups.