Regeneration

Question 1

Definition of regeneration

Answer 1

New birth/born again.

A supernatural work of the Holy Spirit where upon a person receives Christ and is given a new spiritual nature- resulting in change of interest, thoughts, will, concerns and behaviors.

“Given a new heart”

Question 2

Identify and discuss some Scripture passages – regeneration

Answer 2

• Ezekiel 36: 26-27 – I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.
• John 3:5 - I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit
• 2 Cor 5:17 - Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation. The old has gone, behold, all things have become new.

Question 3

Who performs the work of regeneration?

Answer 3

The Holy Spirit

• John 3:5 - I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit

Question 4

What is the nature of the change brought about by regeneration?

Answer 4

We are “a new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17). All things become new.

First birth is physical – made alive physically - inherited our sin nature.

The new birth is a spiritual - made alive spiritually.

• 2 Cor 5:15 – He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ.
• Ezekiel 36: 26-27 – I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations.
• Begin to desire things of God, to please God, to know God

Question 5

What is the continuing purpose of regeneration in one’s personal life?

Answer 5

Phil 1:6 - He who began a good work in you …

To become more and more like Christ (Sanctification)

• I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20
• Ez. 36:26-27 - ability to obey
• Romans 12:2- (Do not conform to the patterns of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind).

Question 6

What attitudes must be present in the individual before regeneration can take place?

Answer 6

Humilty and submission to Christ (1 John 1:9)
1 John 1:9 (confess and be cleansed)