New Year. New You. New Birth?​

In a world where social media often portrays perfect lives, many of us can relate to the feeling that something is missing. This sentiment is not new; it resonates with the story of Nicodemus, a Pharisee who approached Jesus with a similar void in his heart. Despite his devout adherence to the Mosaic Law, Nicodemus sensed an unfulfilled need for something more to enter God’s kingdom.

The Illusion of Perfection

We often see people who seem to have it all—success, beauty, and the ideal family. Yet, Jesus reminds us in John 3:1–10, these external appearances can be deceiving. Nicodemus, despite his religious status, felt something was lacking. This feeling of incompleteness is a universal human experience, pointing to a deeper spiritual need.

The Necessity of Being Born Again

Jesus addressed Nicodemus’s spiritual void by telling him that he must be “born again” to see the kingdom of God (John 3:3). This concept of being “born again” signifies a spiritual rebirth, a transformation that only the Spirit of God can accomplish. It is not something we can achieve through our own efforts or good deeds. Jesus emphasized, “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit” (John 3:6).

The Sovereignty of the Spirit

In this passage, Jesus underscores the sovereignty of God in salvation. Just as the wind blows where it wishes, so the Spirit moves in ways beyond our control or understanding (John 3:8). This new birth is a divine act, a renewal from above, as prophesied in Ezekiel 36:25-27, in which God promises to give us a new heart, by the irresistible, unstoppable, and unpredictable work of His Spirit.

The Invitation to Come to Jesus

If you’re wondering how to be born again, the answer lies in coming to Jesus. He promises, “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out” (John 6:37). It is an invitation to trust in Him, to acknowledge our need for His saving grace, and to receive the new life He offers.

Evidence of a Transformed Life

For believers, the evidence of being born again is seen in a transformed life. This includes a genuine belief in Jesus as Lord and Savior, a love for God and others, a growing hatred for sin, and the fruit of the Spirit manifesting in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23). The passage challenges us to examine our lives for these signs of spiritual renewal.

What about You?

Nicodemus eventually came to understand and experience this new birth. His journey reminds us that no matter how religious or righteous we appear, we all need the transformative work of the Spirit to truly know God and enter His kingdom. What about you? Are you born again? What better way to begin a new year, with a truly “new” you! Jesus’ invites you to come to Him for rest, forgiveness of sin, and new life, today.