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The Difference Between the Baptism of John and the Baptism in the Name of Jesus

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In this teaching, we’ll examine a commonly asked question: Is there a difference between John the Baptist’s baptism and the baptism commanded by Jesus?

1. What Was John’s Baptism?

John the Baptist was sent by God to prepare the way for Jesus (cf. Luke 3:2–4). His message was simple and urgent: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.

Luke 3:3– “And he went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.”

John’s baptism was symbolic—a public sign that someone had repented and was turning away from sin. It was not done in any specific name, as Jesus had not yet been revealed as the Messiah.

Acts 19:4 – “And Paul said, ‘John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.’”

2. What Changed With the Coming of Jesus?

When Jesus began His public ministry, He taught with authority, performed miracles, and eventually gave His life for the sins of the world. After His resurrection, He commanded His disciples to baptize in His name.

Matthew 28:19 – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Luke 24:47 – “…that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”

The apostles understood this Trinitarian command to mean that all should now be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, because it is in Him that the fullness of God dwells bodily (Colossians 2:9), and salvation is found in no other name.

Acts 4:12– “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

3. Baptism in Jesus’ name

Baptism in Jesus’ name represents:

  • Union with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection

Romans 6:3–4– “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?… in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead… we too might walk in newness of life.”

  • Reception of forgiveness of sins

Acts 2:38– “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”

  • Identification with the person and authority of Jesus

Colossians 3:17 – “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

4. Rebaptism of Those Who Received Only John’s Baptism

In Acts 19, Paul encounters believers in Ephesus who had been baptized with John’s baptism. Once they hear the full message of the gospel, they are baptized again—this time in the name of the Lord Jesus.

Acts 19:5– “On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”

This shows that even though John’s baptism was valid for its time, it was incomplete once the revelation of Christ had come. The proper response to the gospel after Jesus’ death and resurrection is to be baptized in His name.

5. Why This Matters Today

Today, baptism in Jesus’ name is not just a formality—it is a command of Christ and an essential part of the believer’s identification with Him. While baptism itself doesn’t save (see Ephesians 2:8–9), it is the biblical expression of faith and obedience.

To knowingly reject baptism in Jesus’ name after receiving this truth is to reject God’s appointed means of entering the new covenant community.

Hebrews 10:26 – “For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins.”

If you’ve never been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, or were only baptized as a child or under John’s model of repentance without the name of Jesus, it’s time to respond to the full gospel. We are living in the last days, and the return of Christ is near. Now is the time to set your life in order and enter fully into the new life God offers through His Son.

2 Corinthians 6:2– “Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

May the Lord bless you and lead you into the fullness of His truth.

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Proverbs 28:8

“Whoever increases wealth by taking interest or profit from the poor amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor.” (NIV)

Question: What does this verse mean?

Answer:
The person described here is someone who grows their wealth through unjust means—by charging interest or profit in a way that exploits the vulnerable, particularly the poor. This behavior is essentially taking advantage of those who are already in difficult circumstances for personal gain.

Biblical law clearly forbids such exploitation. For example, God instructed the people of Israel not to charge interest (usury) on loans to the poor among their own community. They were commanded to lend without seeking profit from their needy brothers and sisters, though interest could be charged to foreigners (Exodus 22:25, NIV):

“If you lend money to one of my people among you who is needy, do not treat it like a business deal; charge no interest.”

Also see Leviticus 25:35-37 and Deuteronomy 23:19-20 for similar injunctions.

Theological and Practical Reflection:

Despite God’s clear commands, history shows that many have disregarded these laws. Wealthy individuals amassed great fortunes through unjust practices—extorting interest and profits from the poor. Their wealth accumulated “like dust on the ground” (Proverbs 28:8) — vast yet ultimately meaningless and fleeting.

However, Scripture assures us of divine justice. People who unjustly gain riches at the expense of the poor will not keep them forever. The Book of Job (27:13-16) and other passages warn that God will eventually take from the greedy and redistribute to those who show mercy to the needy. This divine rebalancing reflects God’s heart for justice and compassion.

Why does this happen?

The Bible teaches that earthly wealth is temporary and can “fly away” like a bird (Proverbs 23:5). Wealth not used rightly—especially when hoarded or gained through injustice—will be lost. The Master in Jesus’ parable warns that talents (resources) not used for God’s purposes, including mercy and justice, will be taken away and given to those who are faithful (Matthew 25:28, ESV):

“For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”

What does this teach us?

If we are people who act justly and show compassion to the poor by sharing what we have, we should be encouraged that God already has prepared blessings for us. The riches of those who selfishly hoard wealth through exploitation will ultimately be transferred to those who honor God’s commands of mercy and justice.

This also reveals a profound spiritual truth: those who delight in giving to others have great treasure on earth and in heaven (Luke 6:38). God honors generosity and kindness to the poor.

Final Encouragement:

May the Lord help us to understand these divine principles and inspire us to love and serve the poor with genuine hearts. Let us be diligent stewards of what God has entrusted to us, using our resources not for selfish gain but to bless others. In doing so, we align ourselves with God’s justice and mercy—qualities that reflect His own nature.

Shalom.

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Bad Company Corrupts Good Character

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome to today’s study of the Word of God.

Have you ever truly considered the danger of corrupt speech and ungodly conversations?

The Bible gives us a sobering warning in:

1 Corinthians 15:33 (ESV)
“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’”

Notice carefully: Scripture does not say that bad company simply “influences” bad behavior. Rather, it says that it ruins—destroys—good morals. In other words, even someone with a godly, admirable character can slowly lose that character through exposure to ungodly talk.

Even if you are not the one speaking—merely listening to or being present in such environments—your heart begins to be influenced. The Word of God doesn’t exaggerate. It speaks with divine authority. That’s why we must take this warning seriously.

What Are “Bad Conversations”?

They include:

  • Sexual immorality

  • Gossip and slander

  • Vulgar jokes

  • Materialistic and worldly chatter

  • Talk that glorifies sin or diminishes godliness

These conversations don’t always take place in obviously sinful environments. They often hide in plain sight—in social gatherings, online platforms, entertainment, and even literature. Let’s explore a few common sources of such conversations.

1. Idle Social Gatherings (“Vijiwe”)

These are casual hangouts where people pass time with games, talk, or debate—such as those found in neighborhoods where individuals gather to play board games, bet on sports, or simply share stories. While these gatherings may seem innocent, they often become breeding grounds for gossip, crude talk, or vain boasting.

Proverbs 13:20 (ESV)
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.”

As believers, we are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13–14). If you must be present in such places, let it be to preach the Gospel, not to partake in worldly chatter.

2. Social Media

Modern digital platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram can be powerful tools—or dangerous traps. When we spend long hours consuming ungodly content or participating in meaningless debates, our spiritual sensitivity begins to dull. Even if you’re a silent observer, simply reading or scrolling through immoral or trivial content affects your heart.

Psalm 101:3 (ESV)
“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.”

What we expose our eyes and ears to matters deeply. We must be intentional with our digital consumption, ensuring it aligns with God’s truth.

3. Television and Worldly Entertainment

Worldly shows, soap operas, and secular debates often promote values opposed to the Gospel—glorifying adultery, revenge, pride, and wealth without integrity. Even passive viewing can reshape your thoughts and desires.

Romans 12:2 (ESV)
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.”

You may not be speaking or acting out what you see—but your mind is being shaped by it. Guard your heart, for “from it flow the springs of life” (Proverbs 4:23).

4. Secular Novels and Fiction

Books filled with lustful romance, occult themes, or godless ideologies may appear “harmless,” but they subtly draw your affections away from Christ. Stories that glorify immorality or sin can sow seeds of compromise in the heart.

Philippians 4:8 (ESV)
“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just… think about these things.”

A mind fixed on Christ cannot be nourished by worldly fiction. Choose reading material that builds your faith, not that feeds your flesh.

A Biblical Example: Dinah, the Daughter of Jacob

Let’s consider a tragic example from Scripture: Dinah, the daughter of Jacob. She was raised in a godly household, yet a single decision led to the ruin of her purity and honor.

Genesis 34:1–2 (ESV)
“Now Dinah, the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to see the women of the land. And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, the prince of the land, saw her, he seized her and lay with her and humiliated her.”

Dinah left her home to mingle with the daughters of the land—women who did not know the God of Israel. Her curiosity exposed her to a godless environment, and the result was tragic.

Genesis 34:19 (NKJV)
“So the young man did not delay to do the thing, because he delighted in Jacob’s daughter. She was more honorable than all the household of her father.”

Despite being the most honorable in her household, she fell. This reveals a sobering truth: no matter how strong your character may seem, bad company can destroy it.

If a daughter of Jacob—heir to the covenant promises—could be corrupted, who are we to think we are immune?

A Word of Caution and Encouragement

Never boast in your own strength or claim that you are “too mature” to be influenced by ungodly talk. The Bible has spoken clearly: Do not be deceived. You are not above the influence of sin.

Many Christians today have grown cold in their faith because they exposed themselves to the wrong company—online, in person, or through entertainment—and now they walk far from the Lord.

But here is the good news: you can guard your heart and rebuild your character by filling your life with what is good, pure, and holy.

Colossians 3:16 (ESV)
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.”

Seek out godly conversations—in church, in Bible study, through Christian books, sermons, and fellowship. These will build up your inner man and strengthen your walk with Christ.

Final Exhortation:

Dear brother, dear sister:
Stay away from corrupt talk. Distance yourself from environments that feed the flesh. Instead, pursue holiness and surround yourself with people and conversations that honor God.

Ephesians 4:29 (ESV)
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up… that it may give grace to those who hear.”

May the Lord Jesus Christ preserve your character, renew your mind, and strengthen your walk. Amen.

 

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DECEIVERS OF WEAK SPIRITS

(2 Peter 2:14

Scripture:
“Having eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin, enticing unstable souls, they have hearts trained in greed. They are accursed children.” (2 Peter 2:14, ESV)

QUESTION:

What does it mean when the Bible speaks of those who “entice unstable spirits” (or “deceive weak souls”) in 2 Peter 2:14?

ANSWER:

In this passage, Peter warns of a particular group of people present in the last days—those who deceive others spiritually, especially targeting those with unstable or weak souls.

  • To deceive here means to mislead or cause someone to stray from the truth.

  • Weak or unstable spirits refers to individuals who lack spiritual stability and maturity; they are vulnerable and easily swayed because their faith is not firmly rooted.

The word “unstable” or “weak” in this context describes those whose hearts are accustomed to sinful desires and who do not have a lasting, resilient faith. They are like a shoe made of cheap plastic rather than durable leather—unable to withstand trials and temptations over time.

DEEPER THEOLOGICAL INSIGHT:

Peter continues to describe these deceivers in verses 15-17:

“They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, but was rebuked for his own transgression; a mute donkey speaking with a human voice restrained the prophet’s madness. These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest, for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.” (2 Peter 2:15-17, ESV)

The “way of Balaam” is symbolic of following a path motivated by selfish gain rather than God’s will. These deceivers are like dry wells and storm-driven clouds—promising refreshment but bringing spiritual drought and confusion. Their destiny is eternal darkness because of their persistent rebellion.

APPLICATION TO THE LAST DAYS:

In the last days, the Bible predicts that there will be certain people whose work is to deceive “unstable souls.” These are believers who have accepted Christ but whose faith is fragile and unsteady. They may be zealous one day and indifferent the next; they attend church irregularly and easily fall back into worldly behaviors.

These unstable believers are prime targets for the devil’s schemes. Just as Balaam enticed Israel to sin through sexual immorality and idolatry (Numbers 31:16), today’s deceivers lure unstable believers into sin, causing spiritual backsliding and destruction.

A CALL TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY:

Paul exhorts believers:
“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13, ESV)
And he prays:
“May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we do for you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.” (1 Thessalonians 3:12-13, ESV)

Believers must cultivate a mature, unwavering faith that resists deception and stands firm in trials. A strong faith is like a deep-rooted tree that cannot be easily uprooted by storms or temptations.

FINAL CHALLENGE:

If you recognize yourself among those with weak or unstable faith, repent and commit fully to following Christ with perseverance. These are perilous times, and the Lord promises to purify those who remain steadfast. Reject a shallow or superficial Christianity that costs nothing and demands little.

Stand firm in the truth of the gospel. Cultivate spiritual discipline and accountability. Resist the subtle deceptions of the enemy. Let your faith be unwavering, your love abundant, and your heart fully devoted to God.

Shalom.

 

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Dream Interpretation: Waiting to Preach but Getting Delayed – What Does It Mean?

Question:
I dream that I am waiting at a specific place to preach, but then I get delayed or distracted by other things and don’t make it on time. What could this mean?

Answer:
Dreams like this are common among people who have a responsibility to serve others, especially leaders and preachers. They often come in different forms: some dream they are waiting to preach at a meeting but get delayed by minor issues—such as waiting in line, distractions from people, or unimportant matters. Others dream they are supposed to go up to the pulpit but find themselves naked, searching for clothes, unable to prepare, and eventually miss the opportunity to preach before the audience disperses.

Theologically, such a dream signals that your readiness to fulfill the role God has assigned you is insufficient. There are spiritual or practical hindrances preventing you from stepping fully into your calling. This can reflect a lack of preparation, distractions, or even internal struggles that delay you from fully serving God’s purpose for you.

Paul’s exhortation to Timothy speaks directly to this issue:


2 Timothy 4:2 (ESV):
“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.”

This verse highlights the importance of constant readiness and perseverance in ministry, regardless of circumstances or timing. You are called to be prepared always, not waiting for “the perfect moment.”

To address this, you must identify and remove the obstacles—whether they are external distractions or internal doubts—that keep you from being fully available and ready to serve. Spiritually, this involves putting on the whole armor of God to stand firm against any forces that seek to delay or prevent your service.

Paul reminds believers in Ephesians of the necessity of spiritual preparedness:


Ephesians 6:13-15 (NIV):
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

In other words, your spiritual preparation is as crucial as physical readiness. You must actively cultivate truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation daily so that you can stand unmoved when challenges arise.

The dream calls you to a deeper level of commitment and spiritual discipline. It challenges you to examine your life for anything that hinders your readiness—practical delays, distractions, fear, or lack of faith—and to commit yourself fully to God’s timing and calling.

Reflection:
Are you fully prepared and spiritually equipped to stand firm and preach God’s word when called upon? Or are there things in your life that need adjustment to align you more closely with God’s purpose?

May God strengthen you, remove every hindrance, and fill you with His readiness and courage to fulfill your calling faithfully.

Blessings in Christ.

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DILIGENTLY PURSUE HOLINESS

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome, dear reader, as we study the living and eternal Word of God.

The Scriptures declare:

Hebrews 12:14 (ESV):
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”

This verse gives us two interrelated commands: (1) Pursue peace with all people, and (2) Pursue holiness. It is similar to someone saying, “Go into the room and look for a shirt and a pair of shoes.” The sentence may seem simple, but it implies two distinct actions—both are necessary.

Likewise, the verse in Hebrews is not merely a general encouragement—it is a divine instruction with eternal consequences. Peace and holiness are not optional. They must be actively pursued with diligence and intentionality.

The Greek word translated as “strive” (diōkō) carries the meaning of chasing after something with intense effort, like a hunter pursuing his prey. Holiness, therefore, is not something that comes passively or naturally. It must be sought earnestly and persistently.

Why Must We Pursue Holiness?

The answer is direct and sobering: Without holiness, no one will see the Lord.

This is not merely about missing blessings in this life—it is about eternal separation from God. You may not have the prophetic boldness of Elijah or stand behind a pulpit to preach like Paul, but as long as you are holy—set apart unto God—you can see Him and inherit eternal life. However, without holiness, the door to God’s presence remains shut.

The Bible is not silent about the kind of life that contradicts holiness. The apostle Paul offers a detailed list of behaviors that are incompatible with the Kingdom of God:

Galatians 5:19–21 (NIV):
“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

This passage is not meant to merely inform—it is meant to warn. A lifestyle characterized by these patterns of sin disqualifies one from the inheritance of eternal life. True holiness is not simply the absence of sin, but the presence of God’s righteousness actively lived out.

How Then Do We Pursue Holiness?

1. By Mastering Our Desires

Sin often begins as a subtle desire. According to Scripture, the root of sin is found in our own internal cravings.

James 1:14–15 (NIV):
“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”

The ability to resist temptation begins with guarding and mastering our desires. If your heart is easily drawn to every fashion, lifestyle, or trend that emerges in the world, your spiritual footing is unstable. Holiness requires discipline over the inner life—a heart that longs more for Christ than for the pleasures of the world.

2. By Avoiding the Triggers of Sin

Sin rarely appears in full form—it is often provoked and fed by subtle influences and environments. Just as anger has its triggers, so does sexual immorality, greed, and pride.

Consider the triggers of impurity in our generation:

  • Pornographic content

  • Inappropriate conversations and jokes

  • Corrupt social media circles

  • Sensual movies and music

  • Indecent dressing

  • Ungodly friendships and online communities

Anyone who constantly exposes themselves to such environments should not expect to walk in holiness. As Scripture says, we must “strive”—this is not a casual or careless endeavor. Holiness will cost us our comfort, our associations, and our pleasures. But the reward is God Himself.

2 Timothy 2:22 (ESV):
“So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.”

Holiness is not just avoiding sin; it is pursuing Christlike character in the company of those who love God.

3. By Prayer and the Word of God

Holiness is both cultivated and sustained in the presence of God. When we commit ourselves to prayer, the power of the enemy is broken, and we are strengthened in our inner being.

Ephesians 6:18 (NIV):
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.”

Furthermore, the Word of God is a sanctifying power in the life of a believer.

John 17:17 (ESV):
“Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”

A person who neglects the Word of God will quickly lose sensitivity to sin. On the other hand, regular reading, meditation, and obedience to Scripture keeps our hearts clean and our minds renewed.

The first sign that someone is drifting spiritually is often their reduced appetite for the Word. If we are to grow in holiness, we must be rooted in the Word of God. Let the Scriptures be your daily bread, your sword against temptation, and your guide in righteousness.

Conclusion: A Call to Holiness

In a world where sin is normalized and even celebrated, the call to holiness has never been more urgent. God is holy, and He commands His children to reflect His character.

1 Peter 1:15–16 (ESV):
“But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’”

Beloved, let us diligently pursue holiness—not as a means to earn salvation, but as the fruit of a life transformed by grace and sealed by the Holy Spirit.

Let us put to death the deeds of the flesh, flee from every form of temptation, saturate our minds with the Word, and walk in step with the Spirit of God. The reward is not only a pure heart in this life but the eternal joy of seeing God face to face.

Matthew 5:8 (NIV):
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

May the Lord help us to live holy and blameless lives before Him.
Maranatha! – Come, Lord Jesus!

 

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KNOWING JESUS IS NOT THE SAME AS HAVING ETERNAL LIFE

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ—the King of kings and Lord of lords! Welcome, dear reader, as we reflect on the Scriptures together.

We live in the last days, and in this generation, many people claim to know Jesus. They know the story of His life: where He was born, who His earthly parents were, how many disciples He had, where He is now, and that He will one day return. Ask almost anyone today if they know Jesus, and the answer will likely be “Yes.” Ask if they believe in Him, and again, many will say “Yes.” Only a few people will openly admit that they neither know nor believe in Him.

This is the reality of our time. But I want to share a vital truth with you today—perhaps to tell you for the first time or to remind you:

Merely knowing about Jesus is not the same as receiving eternal life.

Let us examine this truth through the lens of Scripture:

John 3:2–3 (ESV)
“This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, ‘Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.’ Jesus answered him, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.’”

Nicodemus, a religious leader and Pharisee, came to Jesus at night. He openly acknowledged that Jesus came from God, and even affirmed the miracles He performed. Yet Jesus did not respond with praise or say, “Well done, Nicodemus, for recognizing who I am.” Instead, Jesus gave him a radical and unexpected answer: “You must be born again.”

Jesus was saying that no amount of head knowledge or religious acknowledgment can give a person access to the Kingdom of God. Even sincere belief in Jesus’ divine mission is not enough if it is not accompanied by the new birth—a spiritual transformation.

In other words:

Knowing Jesus with your mind is not the same as being born of Him in your heart.

Let’s go further.

❓What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?

Nicodemus himself asked Jesus the same question:

John 3:4–5 (ESV)
“Nicodemus said to Him, ‘How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?’ Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’”

Jesus explained that to be born again is to be born of water and the Spirit. This is not a physical rebirth, but a spiritual one, and it involves two essential elements:

✅ 1. Being Born of Water — Water Baptism

To be “born of water” refers to baptism by immersion—a public act of repentance, identification with Christ’s death and resurrection, and the washing away of sin.

Acts 2:38 (NKJV)
“Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”

Water baptism is not an optional ritual. It is a direct command from Christ (see Matthew 28:19) and a vital step of obedience following genuine repentance and faith. While baptism in itself does not save us (see Ephesians 2:8–9), it is the outward expression of our inward transformation. Through baptism, we publicly declare our allegiance to Christ and our willingness to die to our old life and rise with Him (see Romans 6:3–4).

✅ 2. Being Born of the Spirit — Receiving the Holy Spirit

The second part of the new birth is being “born of the Spirit.” This means receiving the Holy Spirit, who comes to dwell within believers at the moment of true conversion. The Holy Spirit regenerates, seals, empowers, and sanctifies us.

Ephesians 1:13 (ESV)
“In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in Him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.”

Romans 8:9 (ESV)
“Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to Him.”

Receiving the Holy Spirit is not merely an emotional experience—it is the mark of true belonging to God. He is our comforter, teacher, and guide (John 14:26), and it is by the Spirit that we are enabled to live the new life God calls us to.

🍼 The New Birth Is Just the Beginning

When a person is born again—baptized in water and filled with the Spirit—they become a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). But like a newborn baby, this is only the beginning of the journey. Spiritual growth is essential.

1 Peter 2:2 (NKJV)
“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.”

Without growing in God’s Word, in prayer, and in fellowship, a new believer can wither spiritually. Just as physical life must be nourished to thrive, spiritual life must be cultivated with intentional discipleship, obedience, and daily walking with Christ.

🎁 The Blessings of the New Birth

There are countless blessings that come with being born again—peace with God, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, victory over sin, and the hope of eternal life. But the greatest blessing of all is this:

“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” —John 3:3

Being born again is not just about improving your life here and now; it’s about entering the eternal Kingdom of God.

📣 Have You Been Born Again?

If not, what are you waiting for? Now that you know the truth, do not delay. Seek true baptism—by full immersion in water and in the name of Jesus Christ, in accordance with the teaching of the apostles (Acts 2:38). And pray to receive the Holy Spirit, the promise given to all who believe (Luke 11:13, Acts 1:8).

Let your knowledge of Jesus lead you to a relationship with Him through the new birth.

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” —Hebrews 3:15

May the Lord bless you as you respond to His call. Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus!

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