Introduction 

Evangelical and Pentecostal Christians and many others say that getting “saved” – being born again – is the most important thing about relating to God. Actually, the new birth is a result of obedience.

Jesus Told Only One about the New Birth

When Nicodemus met with Jesus secretly, at night, the Master told him, “You must be born again.” Since he said it, it must have been true for Nicodemus. However, the Master gave no one else that instruction. To everyone else, Jesus said, “Change your thinking. God’s Kingdom is within reach.”

Jesus then demonstrated God’s love and care for people by healing their bodies, driving away evil spirits that tormented them, even raising some who had died. In all this, the Rabbi announced the Good News to the poor. In all this, He fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah 61.

Being Born Again Comes from Surrender

It was the New Testament writers who later continued the idea of a new birth, having a new nature. Paul wrote, “Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)” In his first letter, Peter wrote, “Because of his great mercy he gave us new life by raising Jesus Christ from death.” (1 Peter 1:3) However, neither of these apostles urged his readers to seek this new birth. Each wrote that it was the result of changing one’s thinking and surrendering to the King.

Questions 

Do you believe that new life in King Jesus is important? You are right. However, it’s not the end-all so many think it is. Surrender to the King only the beginning of the new life.

Do you wish to urge unbelievers to become born again? Better to show them the benefits of being surrendered to the King.