10 Signs You Are Born Again : What Happens When You Become Born Again?
Embarking on a spiritual journey often leads us to moments of profound transformation and enlightenment. For many, the concept of being ‘born again’ represents a significant spiritual awakening—a renewal of faith, purpose, and understanding.
When anyone becomes “born again”, their spirit man is recreated, and their soul undergoes transformation as they become committed to their walk of faith. this transformation results into visible changes in the life of the saved individual.
In this blog post, we will look into what it means to be a “Born Again” Christian, 10 signs you are born again, and of course, what happens when you become born again.
Join us as we unravel the signs and insights that can help you recognize if you are indeed ‘born again’ in your spiritual journey.
What Does It Mean To Be Born Again Christian
To be “born again” as a Christian refers to a spiritual rebirth or a transformation that occurs when a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. It is a fundamental concept in Christianity and is based on several Bible references. Here are a few key passages:
1. John 3:3 (NIV): “Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.'”
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to Nicodemus and emphasizing the importance of being born again as a prerequisite for entering the kingdom of God.
2. John 3:5-6 (NIV): “Jesus answered, ‘Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.'”
Here, Jesus explains that being born again involves both a physical birth (“born of water”) and a spiritual birth (“born of the Spirit”). It signifies a transformation from a life governed by the flesh to a life guided by the Holy Spirit.
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV): “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This verse highlights the transformative nature of being born again. It signifies a complete change in a person’s identity and a new beginning in Christ. The old patterns of sin and separation from God are replaced with a new life in Christ.
4. 1 Peter 1:3 (NIV): “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
Peter’s letter speaks of the new birth as a result of God’s mercy and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It brings about a living hope and a restored relationship with God.
These verses, among others, illustrate the concept of being born again as a central aspect of Christian faith, emphasizing the need for spiritual transformation and a new life in Christ.
More Resources: Powerful Faith Confession
10 Signs You Are Born Again: With Bible References
The concept of being “born again” holds immense significance in various religious and spiritual traditions. It signifies a profound spiritual rebirth, leading to a renewed sense of purpose, a deep connection with a higher power, and a transformed way of life.
in this section, we will explore the ten biblical signs associated with being born again. Each sign will be supported by relevant scripture references, highlighting the personal and spiritual changes that accompany this transformative experience.
1. Changed Heart:
Ezekiel 36:26 (NIV) states, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
A born-again individual experiences a transformative change in their heart and mind. Their old, hardened heart is replaced by a new heart filled with love, compassion, and a desire to live in accordance with God’s teachings. This is one of the 10 signs you are born again.
2. Repentance:
Acts 3:19 (NIV) declares, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
Being born again involves genuine repentance, acknowledging and confessing our sins before God, seeking forgiveness, and turning away from a life of sin. It is a turning point marked by a deep desire for personal transformation.
3. New Desires:
Psalm 37:4 (NIV) states, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” A born-again individual experiences a shift in desires. Their priorities align with God’s will, and they develop a hunger for spiritual growth, seeking to live in harmony with God’s teachings and commands.
4. Relationship with God:
John 3:3 (NIV) records Jesus’ words, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” Being born again establishes a personal and intimate relationship with God. It is through this rebirth that believers experience a deep connection with the divine, guided and sustained by God’s love, grace, and presence.
5. Love for Others:
1 John 4:7 (NIV) reminds us, “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” Being born again instills a genuine and selfless love for others. This love extends not only to family and friends but also to strangers and even enemies, reflecting God’s unconditional love and forgiveness.
6. Changed Behavior:
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) affirms, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” A born-again individual undergoes a transformation of behavior. They discard their old way of life, habits, and addictions, striving to live in a manner that reflects their newfound faith and God’s righteousness.
7. Inner Peace:
Philippians 4:7 (NIV) assures, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Being born again brings a deep sense of inner peace. It is a peace that surpasses worldly understanding, providing solace and assurance amidst life’s challenges and uncertainties.
8. Joy and Gratitude:
Yes, one of the 10 signs you are born again, is the expression of joy that is not dependent on what you’re going through, and the perspective of gratitude towards life.
Psalm 118:24 (NIV) encourages, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” The born-again experience fills individuals with abounding joy and gratitude. They recognize and appreciate God’s blessings, finding joy in the simplest of things and expressing gratitude for God’s love, forgiveness, and guidance in their lives. This joy and gratitude become a source of strength and inspiration, radiating through their words and actions.
9. Hunger for Spiritual Truth:
Psalm 119:105 (NIV) declares, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Being born again ignites a hunger for spiritual truth and understanding. The born-again individual seeks wisdom and insight from God’s Word, studying and meditating on the Scriptures to deepen their faith and align their lives with God’s teachings.
10. Sharing Your Faith:
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV) contains Jesus’ command, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
A born-again individual feels compelled to share their faith with others, spreading the message of God’s love, grace, and salvation. They become passionate evangelists, not out of judgment or obligation, but out of genuine love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others.
The experience of being born again brings about a profound transformation of the heart and spirit. Through repentance, a new relationship with God, love for others, changed behavior, inner peace, joy, gratitude, a hunger for spiritual truth, and sharing one’s faith, believers demonstrate the signs of being born again.
These signs are rooted in the teachings of the Bible, serving as guideposts for those seeking a deep and transformative encounter with God. If you identify with these signs, embrace the journey of being born again, seeking guidance from trusted spiritual mentors and immersing yourself in God’s Word.
May this transformative experience bring you closer to God, empower you to live a purposeful life, and inspire you to share the message of God’s love and grace with others.
More Resources: How To Develop A Powerful Prayer Life
What Happens When You Become Born Again?
When an individual becomes born again, it signifies a significant spiritual transformation and renewal of their faith. The Bible provides valuable insights and references to understand what happens when someone becomes born again. Here are key aspects supported by biblical passages:
1. Forgiveness of Sins:
Acts 2:38 (NIV) states, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, a born-again individual receives forgiveness for their sins. 1 John 1:9 (NIV) assures, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
2. Adoption into God’s Family:
John 1:12 (NIV) declares, “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” Being born again means being adopted into God’s family. Romans 8:15 (NIV) explains, “The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him, we cry, ‘Abba, Father.'”
3. Indwelling of the Holy Spirit:
Ephesians 1:13-14 (NIV) states, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession.” The born-again experience involves the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who guides and empowers believers.
4. Transformation of the Heart and Mind:
Romans 12:2 (NIV) urges, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Being born again brings about a transformation of the heart and mind. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
5. New Life and Purpose:
2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV) explains, “And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” When someone becomes born again, they begin a new life with a renewed purpose. Galatians 2:20 (NIV) describes this transformation, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
6. Victory over Sin and Spiritual Warfare:
Romans 6:6-7 (NIV) affirms, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” Being born again grants believers victory over sin and equips them for spiritual warfare.
Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) reminds us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
7. Eternity with God:
John 3:16 (NIV) declares, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Being born again secures believers’ eternal destiny. 1 Peter
1:4-5 (NIV) assures, “and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.”
It’s important to note that these biblical references provide a foundation for understanding what happens when someone becomes born again. The personal experiences and manifestations of this transformation may vary among individuals.
However, the overarching themes of forgiveness, adoption into God’s family, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, transformation of the heart and mind, new life and purpose, victory over sin and spiritual warfare, and the assurance of eternity with God remain consistent throughout Scripture.
In conclusion, when an individual becomes born again, they experience a profound spiritual transformation rooted in God’s love and grace. Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, they receive forgiveness of sins and are adopted into God’s family.
The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within them, guiding, empowering, and transforming their lives. They experience a renewal of the heart and mind, a new life with a purpose aligned with God’s will, victory over sin, and the assurance of eternal life with God.
These biblical truths provide a foundation for understanding the profound impact of the born-again experience in a believer’s life.
