"Born again" – a phrase Jesus emphasized in John 3:3-7. But what does it truly mean? How can you be certain you're born again and avoid hell? Let's explore the biblical criteria and practical guidance from Bishop Dag Heward-Mills.
Biblical Signs of Being Born Again
1. Faith in Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10)
Believe in Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.
1. Repentance (Luke 24:47; Acts 2:38)
Turn away from sin and toward God.
1. Spiritual Renewal (2 Corinthians 5:17; Titus 3:5)
The Holy Spirit transforms your life.
1. Love for God and Others (1 John 4:7-8; Matthew 22:37-40)
Demonstrate love, a hallmark of born-again Christians.
1. Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
Show characteristics like love, joy, peace, and self-control.
Practical Guidance from Dag Heward-Mills
In "How to Be Born Again and Avoid Hell," Dag Heward-Mills emphasizes:
1. Sincere Prayer (Matthew 6:6)
Confess sin, seek salvation, and surrender to God.
1. Total Surrender (Romans 12:1)
Yield your life to God, surrendering will and desires.
1. Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Matthew 3:11)
Seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment.
1. Separation from Sin (2 Corinthians 6:14-18)
Avoid sinful habits and relationships.
1. Continuous Growth (2 Peter 3:18)
Pursue spiritual maturity, studying God's Word.
Self-Reflection Questions
1. Have I genuinely repented and turned to God?
2. Do I demonstrate love for God and others?
3. Am I growing in spiritual maturity?
4. Have I surrendered my life to God?
5. Do I experience the Holy Spirit's presence?
Avoiding Hell
Dag Heward-Mills warns:
- Hell is real (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:15).
- Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2).
- Only born-again Christians will inherit heaven (John 3:3-7).
Conclusion
Being born again is not just a one-time event but a lifelong process. Ensure you're genuinely born again by:
- Regularly examining your faith and repentance
- Seeking spiritual renewal and growth
- Demonstrating love and fruit of the Spirit
- Surrendering to God's will
- Cultivating a deep prayer life
Scriptures to Meditate On
- John 3:3-7
- Romans 10:9-10
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- 1 John 4:7-8
- Galatians 5:22-23
Recommended Reading
- "How to Be Born Again and Avoid Hell" by Dag Heward-Mills
- "The New Birth" by John MacArthur
- "Born Again" by Charles Stanley
May this guide help you confirm your born-again experience and deepen your walk with God.
Prayer for Salvation
"Dear Heavenly Father, I confess my sins and repent. I believe in Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. I surrender my life to You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. Help me grow in spiritual maturity and demonstrate Your love. Amen."
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