Regeneration
Historic orthodoxy
The work of the Holy Spirit by which a person dead in sin is made spiritually alive, given a new heart that turns to God in faith and repentance.
Also called: new birth, born again, born of the Spirit
What it means
Jesus told Nicodemus that no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. Regeneration is that new birth: a sovereign act of God's Spirit, giving spiritual life to someone who was spiritually dead. God removes the heart of stone and gives a heart of flesh. The person's mind is opened to see the glory of Christ, and his will is renewed so that he gladly turns to Him.
Scripture describes this as God's work, not ours. We are born "not of the will of man, but of God." It happens through the word of the gospel, as the Spirit uses the preaching of Christ to bring new life. Its fruit is faith, repentance, love for God and His people, and a new desire to obey.
Reformed theology teaches that regeneration comes before faith in the order of cause, since dead people cannot believe until they are made alive. Other evangelicals place faith first, or speak of them as simultaneous. All agree that a true Christian is someone God has made new.
In Scripture
No one can see or enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit.
God will remove the heart of stone and give a new heart of flesh.
God saved us through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
We have been born again through the living and enduring word of God.
When we were dead in trespasses, God made us alive with Christ.
Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God.
Where it comes up
Confessions: WCF 10.2; LBCF 1689 10.2; Canons of Dort 3/4.11-12
Related terms
Effectual callingA view held among orthodox Christians
God's Spirit inwardly calls the elect in a way that certainly brings them to faith, by renewing their hearts so that they come to Christ willingly.
Total depravityHistoric orthodoxy
Sin has affected every part of fallen human nature, so that no one can turn to God or please Him without His grace.
The gospelHistoric orthodoxy
The good news that God saves sinners through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and freely forgives and accepts all who turn from sin and trust in Him.
Semi-PelagianismSerious error
The teaching that sinners can take the first step toward God by their own power, after which God's grace helps them the rest of the way.