It’s one thing to be born again; to come to Christ, receive Him as Lord and Savior, and begin a new life. But it’s another thing to live as one who is truly born again; genuinely surrendering to God, obeying His Word, and walking daily in His ways.
John 3:3–7 reminds us: “Unless someone is born again, they cannot see the kingdom of God.”
What does this really mean? Is being born again simply a one-time experience, or is it a lifelong transformation?
Does it mean that once we’re “born again,” everything is settled and the journey is complete?
How does one become born again?
Being born again isn’t a difficult thing, one must:
Acknowledge your sin
Humans tend to hold on to their behaviors, thoughts, convictions, and beliefs until they’re convinced they need to change. This inner conviction is the strongest motivator for transformation. So, until you admit that the life you’re living right now is wrong, sinful, and empty, you won’t see the need for change or the need for Jesus.
Believe in Jesus Christ as Savior
There are many ways people try to change once they realize their shortcomings. Some settle for becoming a “good” person or a “better” version of themselves. But believing in Jesus Christ is something entirely different. It means believing that we were created by God, the Alpha and the Omega. It means knowing we are not here by mistake; that God has a plan and purpose for each one of us. It means believing in the reality of the spiritual realm and that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life who leads us to the Father when this world passes away.
As you can see, this requires a much deeper level of reflection and transformation. It goes far beyond simply wanting to be a good person.
Repent and turn from sin
Now that you’ve accepted Jesus Christ and chosen to follow Him, ask for forgiveness and turn from your evil ways, your wrongdoings, and your temptations. It’s time to leave the world behind and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Separate yourself from what was before.
This isn’t a one-time decision; it’s a daily commitment for the rest of your life, because every day brings its own temptations and challenges.
From now on, you’ll need to stay alert and vigilant, because the devil is prowling, waiting for moments of weakness to drag you back into the world (1 Peter 5:8).
Confess Him as Lord
It’s more than just saying, “Jesus is Lord.” It means giving Him your full allegiance; His will becomes your command, and His ways guide your life. What matters to Him matters to you. It’s surrendering yourself completely and allowing Him to use you as a vessel for His kingdom.
Receive the Holy Spirit
When you accept Jesus, God gives you the Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and transform your life. He helps you overcome sin, understand God’s Word, and live according to His will (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit is our comforter and the evidence of a transformed life.
Live as a new creation in Christ
Being born again means the old has gone, and the new has come. Your thoughts, actions, and choices should reflect Christ’s life in you (2 Corinthians 5:17). From now on when people see you, they should be able to see Christ; it’s not until you mention you’re a Christian. You’re now an ambassador for Christ and your lifestyle should reflect it.
How do I know I’m born again?
The answer to this question is very simple:
- You love God’s Word and want to obey it.
- You desire to turn from sin and live righteously.
- You have a new hunger for prayer and fellowship with other believers.
- The Holy Spirit guides, convicts, and empowers you.
Even born-again children of God sometimes need to be born again; their relationship with Him needs refreshing. Their eyes must be opened to areas where they fall short so they can repent and make things right. Some may be born again in name, but need a true rebirth to awaken their spirit and bear lasting fruit.
Being born again after being born again means experiencing a deeper, more intentional spiritual renewal beyond your initial conversion. You can be born again and still struggle with sin, disobedience, or living partially surrendered. This second rebirth is about fully surrendering to God; obeying Him even when you want to run, allowing Him to use you completely, and basking in His presence daily.
It’s entering another realm in the Spirit, where your connection with God deepens, your purpose becomes clear, and you actively carry out the assignments He has given you. Some believers may live as though they are “born again” in name only; they know the gospel but their daily walk doesn’t reflect it. Being born again again awakens your spirit, empowers you to produce lasting fruit, and aligns your life with God’s kingdom.
This is not just a spiritual reset, it’s a transformation that impacts every part of your life, helping you complete the work God has assigned, answer the call of the Great Commission, and live fully for Him.
Stay Blessed x
