REGENERATION

AS IT RELATES TO SALVATION:

As we consider the doctrine of regeneration it is important to understand its’ close relationship to the doctrine of salvation. Regeneration has to do with the indwelling of the HolY Spirit, which takes place at the time of salvation. There are many benefits and achievements in the believer’s life as a result of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Regeneration gives the believer:

1. Power over the sinful nature that once dominated their life.

2. A divine nature created after righteousness.

3. A divine source of peace and comfort.

4. A divine means of understanding God’s wisdom

5. The power to fulfill God’s will.

6. An assurance of eternal and everlasting life.

THE INDWELLING OF GOD

Regarding the Holy Spirit imparting:

Power to overcome the sinful nature

Romans 8:3-4 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

A divine nature created after righteousness

Romans 8:9-10 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.

A divine source of peace and comfort

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

A divine means of understanding God’s wisdom

I Corinthians 2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God

The power to fulfill God’s will.

Ephesians 3:19-20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

An assurance of eternal and everlasting life.

Romans 8:15-17 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together

FINAL POINTS

In conclusion, we see that regeneration is one of the many benefits that believers receive at the time of salvation. As one examines all of these benefits it magnifies the love and grace of God as we see how complete His plan of everlasting life is. It also becomes more obvious that God has equipped and blessed all Saints with all spiritual blessings, in Christ Jesus. Further, it gives glory and honor to His Son for being such an all-sufficient Savior.

In the song, Blessed Assurance, regeneration is stated to be “a fore-taste of glory divine”. Although the discussion of regeneration just outlined is just a brief description, there are some conclusions that can be drawn. God’s plan to allow His Holy Spirit to dwell within believers demonstrates how much God desires an intimate relationship with His children. It also makes them aware that God has assured that they will be guided by Him personally to their eternal home, with all care and spiritual provision.