FAQ: What is Regeneration?
What is Regeneration?
Regeneration, according to Webster’s 1828 Dictionary is stated as follows: new birth by the grace of God; that change by which the will and natural enmity of man to God and his law are subdued, and a principle of supreme love to God and his law, or holy affections, are implanted in the heart.
The actual word appears twice in the New Testament, which are both listed below. The concept of regeneration is essentially the same thing as “to be born again” (or “to be born from above” as some choose to say). When we talk about being born again or being born from above, we are referring to our spirit within us...the spirit that we already have, being re-born and regenerated.
The Greek understanding of the word used by the Apostle Paul to mean regeneration according to Thayer's dictionary is: “the production of a new life consecrated to God, a radical change of mind for the better. The word often used to denote the restoration of a thing to its pristine state, its renovation, as a renewal or restoration of life after death.” This explains perfectly what happens on the inside of everyone that is authentically “born again”. So, when Y’shua speaks about being born again, He is actually talking about regeneration.
The idea of regeneration is expressed in two phases in the Scripture:
1) Something that has already happened, as it is in Titus 3:5b (see below)
2) Something that will happen in the future, as it is in Matthew 19:28 (see below)
These two ideas seem to contradict one another; however, they both are happening simultaneously. One who is born again is both regenerated and being regenerated at the same time, and moreover, looking forward to the final regeneration.
And Y’shua said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (Matthew 19:28)
…future regeneration.
Titus 3:5b says, “…he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Spirit;
…past and present regeneration.
Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. (2 Cor. 1:22)
This verse says that you are sealed or given a stamp for security or preservation, by the “part of the purchase money”, or earnest of the Spirit that is put in your heart. This is a perfect explanation of regeneration. The Spirit is indeed YHWH and Y’shua coming to live and dwell in your heart. Its purpose is to lead and guide you to your final transformation. (John 14:23; 1Cor. 15:51-52; 2Cor. 3:8)