This is perhaps the most misunderstood and controversial question in the “big C” Church. Whole denominations are started over this question. So where do we find the answer? One answer is found in John chapter 3. Yes, that John chapter 3 where verse 16 is found. But I submit to you that verses 1 through 15 and verse 17 are far more important and relevant to this question than the more famous verse 16. Let’s read some highlight verses:

Verse 3
Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

This is the answer to the question that the teacher of the law, the Pharisee Nicodemus, has not even asked yet. Basically, Nicodemus was saying, “Jesus, I know you are God inspired, God sent, God something. But I can’t understand what is happening right now, and you scare me. Help me understand.”

So Jesus explains the unexplainable to a finite mind. “Nicodemus, you must be born again. New birth must be provided for you. You must be recreated, but not physically; spiritually. And the only way for this to happen is through a Savior who will bring about the rebirthing process so you can see the kingdom of God (Luke 2 passage above). This is good news, Nicodemus. You do not have the ability to birth yourself spiritually. You need Me. You need the Spirit to accomplish this for you. There is nothing for you to do. There is nothing that you can do. No different than a human birth. The baby has no role until after the birth is complete.”

And Nicodemus was amazed and confused. You see, he came from a world of do’s and don’ts. There had to be something for him to do. Why? Because in a world of accomplishment and hard work (sound familiar?), success in everything only comes from effort, including salvation and holiness. Jesus is telling him, no. Salvation only comes from a Savior. Saviors save. Victims get saved. It is simple and unknowable at the same time.

And then Jesus drives the point home in verse 17:
“For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him.”

The word “world” is the word used for “nations” or “people groups,” showing that this salvation was open to not just the Jews.

So how does God change the heart of man? He just does. Again, from yesterday: if you are struggling with Jesus, then the chances are good that you are being born again. It is not comfortable for the baby in the birth canal. But eventually the childbirth process completes itself and the baby comes out of the darkness of the womb and into the light of life. Do not struggle against the pressure being exerted on you. And do not be afraid. You are not being judged; you are being redeemed by the Savior.

Tomorrow we will look at what is expected of the newborn.