True sonship in God’s kingdom begins with a transformation that Jesus Himself described as being “born again.” It’s not a physical rebirth, but a spiritual awakening that redefines who we are. This rebirth is essential for entering God’s family and enjoying the full benefits of sonship. Jesus emphasized this profound truth during His conversation with Nicodemus, a learned man who sought understanding of God’s kingdom.

Today’s Scripture: John 3:1-10 (NKJV)

1. There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
2. 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.”
3. Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
4. 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?”
5. Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’
8. The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
9. Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?”
10. Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things?

Born Again: A Necessary Transformation

In His dialogue with Nicodemus, Jesus made it clear that being born again is not optional but essential for seeing and entering God’s kingdom. When Nicodemus questioned how a grown man could be born again, Jesus explained that this new birth is a spiritual one, a rebirth of the soul, and a transformation led by the Holy Spirit.

Understanding Spiritual Rebirth

To be “born again” is to receive new life through the power of God’s Spirit. It is a supernatural act, where the old sinful nature is replaced by a new creation in Christ. The apostle Paul echoes this in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” The moment we accept Jesus, we are born into a new family—God’s family.

The Benefits of Becoming a Child of God

Once you are born again, you receive the privileges that come with being a child of God. Just as an earthly child enjoys the love, protection, and provision of their family, so too does the born-again believer receive divine protection, provision, and the unfailing love of the Heavenly Father.

1. Access to God’s Kingdom: Being born again grants you access to the kingdom of God. Jesus said, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). This means we gain access to God’s abundant grace, wisdom, and eternal life.
2. The Holy Spirit’s Presence: When you are born again, the Holy Spirit dwells within you, guiding you, strengthening you, and empowering you to live according to God’s will. Romans 8:14 reminds us, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.”
3. Freedom from Sin: Rebirth in Christ breaks the chains of sin. While we once were slaves to sinful desires, the new birth brings freedom. Romans 6:6 says, “Our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.”

Living in the Fullness of Sonship

To live as a child of God is to live in the fullness of His promises. Once you are born again, you have the right to call God “Father” and to experience the inheritance of eternal life (Romans 8:16-17). Your identity is no longer shaped by the world’s standards, but by your relationship with God. This new identity brings confidence, peace, and the assurance that God is always with you.

How Do You Know You Are Born Again?

You may wonder, “How do I know if I am truly born again?” The answer lies in the changes you experience. If you’ve surrendered your heart to Jesus, the fruit of the Spirit begins to manifest in your life. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control are indicators that the Holy Spirit is transforming you from within. A desire for God’s Word, a turning away from sin, and a growing closeness to God are all signs that you have been born again.

Conclusion:

To be born again is the starting point of a life filled with the blessings of sonship. It is the only way to enter God’s kingdom, experience His love, and walk in His divine purpose. As Jesus told Nicodemus, “You must be born again” (John 3:7). It’s a decision that changes everything, opening the door to the countless benefits of being a child of God.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of new life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to embrace the fullness of sonship, walking in Your Spirit, and experiencing the joy of being Your children. May we always remember that through being born again, we are forever part of Your family. In Jesus’ name, Amen.