The New Birth
by Greg Nichols
In 1982, I was saved. My life changed dramatically as I came to the realization that Greg was not the center of the Universe, but rather, Jesus was. My heart changed, and I found out that the only hope for mankind's hearts is Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
Jesus is now my friend, and wants to be the friend and Savior of all men and women on Earth.
The Father sent Jesus into the world to save the world from sin. Mankind was eternally separated from the Father, and mankind needed a Savior. Jesus became the embodiment of God's love to mankind, and He walked a sinless walk on Earth, and was finally crucified, and buried. He came to Earth in the flesh, meaning, God came in human form, born of woman, to redeem humanity. On the 3rd day, Jesus rose from the dead, and a short time after that, ascended to Heaven to be re-united with the Father. Jesus was the Father's chosen way and method to save the world and redeem them.
God calls mankind to a walk of faith, in the death and resurrection of Jesus, and in His saving power, as a means of reconciliation and restoration unto God. As a person truly, from the heart, believes in the redemptive act of the Cross, that person is changed instantly into a child of God, their sins are forgiven, and they are given the free gift of eternal life. This work of God is called the New Birth. The person is literally born again from death to life. They are spiritually re-born. The following words of Jesus are not taught or believed by many denominations, but you cannot tear a page from the Bible or discount something God wants you to know about your eternal salvation, especially if Jesus Himself spoke the words.
"Most assuredly I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." John 3:3
One needs only to watch the news or read the newspaper to witness the effects and ravages of sin on a troubled world. Mankind will not save themselves, as some philosophies predict, but rather the future of mankind apart from God is at most, bleak! Most people know deep within their souls that Jesus is the answer, the way, and the truth.
Many say, I was baptized as a child, so I do not need the New Birth now. I assure you, everyone on Earth needs the New Birth, because it must be a willful decision that an infant cannot make. Just as we will a life of sin, with our own wills, God requires that we come to Him in repentance with our will and surrender to Him. Our parents faith and our infant baptism will not save us. Since an infant cannot decide for or against God, they are already saved until their will is in effect. That is a whole other teaching though.
HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED THE NEW BIRTH?
Can you think of one specific time that you asked God to eternally save you? If you have not, do not live another day in this dangerous world without the real assurance of Jesus Christ, His sacrifice for your sin, and your free eternal redemption! It is later than you think! God is not mad at you, He is waiting for you with longing!
The following prayer can lead you to that place of heart within yourself where God and you transact an eternal transaction. After you say the prayer, aloud, read the powerful scripture.
Dear God,
I ask that you save me. I have sinned, and I deserve your punishment, but you are love, and you are full of mercy. Forgive me now, and save me. I accept Jesus Christ now, as Savior. Wash me and make me a born again child of yours, now. I receive your love and grace. I receive cleansing. I am a new person. I am a believer, I accept what you have for me God. Thank you Lord.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Read this scripture below aloud:
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he (she) is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17
If you are new, it is time to stop the insanity of sin, as God helps you!