Born of the Spirit: The New Birth
14 June 2025 · 1 min read · Understanding the Bible
Nicodemus came by night with compliments; Jesus answered with a demolition: except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Israel's teacher was told he needed what every infant has — a birth, this time from above.
That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
The Spirit's delivery room
That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Religion can renovate the flesh; only the Spirit generates new life. Conversion, at bottom, is not turning over a new leaf but receiving a new nature — Ezekiel's promised new heart, installed.
The wind bloweth where it listeth, Jesus added — you hear the sound, you see the effects, you cannot chart the mechanics. So is every one that is born of the Spirit: mystery in the method, evidence in the life.
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Not of works
Paul's summary keeps the credit straight: not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. The new birth is received, not achieved — which is why it can be received by anyone.
If you have it, thank the Spirit today for the quiet miracle under your faith. If you are not sure — ask. The wind still blows where it pleases, and it pleases to blow toward askers.
