Focus of the Session:

Exploring the concept of regeneration as one of the foundational works of the Holy Spirit.

Understanding how regeneration relates to Israel’s prophetic promises and the Church.

Approach:

Examine regeneration through a literal interpretation of Scripture.

Compare Old Testament promises of Israel’s renewal with New Testament descriptions of the Spirit’s work.

Definition:

Biological Perspective: Regeneration involves the process of restoration and renewal, as seen in the natural world.

Biblical Perspective: Regeneration in Scripture refers to spiritual renewal, not creating something entirely new, but a restoration of life and purpose through the Spirit.

Key Term (Titus 3:5):

Greek: Palingenesia (παλιγγενεσία) – "Rebirth" or "renewal."

Found only twice in Scripture (Titus 3:5 and Matthew 19:28).

Key Passages:

Ezekiel 36:25-27: Promise of a new heart and spirit for Israel.

Ezekiel 37:14: Spirit breathed into dry bones, symbolizing life and restoration.

Jeremiah 31:31-34: The New Covenant – God writes His law on Israel’s hearts.

Isaiah 44:3-5: God pours out His Spirit like water on dry ground.

Joel 2:28-29: Spirit poured out on all flesh, marking a new era for Israel.

John 3:5-8:

Jesus’s conversation with Nicodemus introduces being "born of water and Spirit."

Context: Kingdom promises for Israel, not directly applicable to the Church.

Titus 3:5-7:

Paul speaks of "the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost."

This describes the Spirit’s work in bringing believers into a life of renewal and transformation.

Not Entirely New:

Regeneration doesn’t create something fundamentally different but restores and renews what was damaged by sin.

Unified Process:

Washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost in Titus 3:5 describe one unified act by the Spirit.

Live with a fresh perspective and purpose, aligning with the Spirit’s work.

Move beyond legalistic service to joyful, Spirit-empowered living.

Allow the Spirit to shape your thoughts and attitudes daily.

Daily Renewal (2 Corinthians 4:16):

Seek the Spirit’s refreshment each day.

Put on the New Man (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10):

Actively embrace your new identity in Christ.

Engage with God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26):

Allow Scripture to cleanse and renew your heart and mind.

Regeneration is the Spirit’s work of bringing spiritual renewal, offering a fresh start and a new purpose in life.

This process is not a one-time event but a continual journey of transformation, empowered by the Spirit.

As believers, we are called to cooperate with the Spirit, walking in newness of life and serving with a renewed spirit.