John 1:4 - In him [Jesus] was life; and the Life was the Light of men.

Life begets life. Adam had a complete body before God breathed life into him. All physical life comes from God. No scientist can manufacture life. There is another kind of life that only comes from God that many try to manufacture with religion or self-help books, and that is spiritual life. Jesus enlightens men spiritually when He imparts His life in us. A good metaphor for the new Christian is that of a blind man being able to see for the first time.

To be born-again is to receive this new life. It is referred to in various ways: life, light, everlasting life, divine nature, life eternal, newness of life, quickened [made alive], and the life of God, sons of God, saved, etc.

When we believe upon Jesus, putting our faith in the One who died for our sins and rose from the dead; that He alone can save us, God quickens our dead spirit. Eternal life doesn’t refer to longevity. Eternal life is the life of God that is implanted in us the moment we believe. It is received. It is a work of God in our life and spirit. If a person has not be saved, that person cannot make his spirit live. A dead man cannot raise himself. It is God that revives our dead spirit. Ephesians 2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

If we are spiritually dead, we are not saved. We cannot save ourselves. No matter how many books a person reads on personal growth and discipline he cannot revive a dead spirit. Only God can. “You must be born again.” It can only be received. John 1:11-12 He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

But once we are saved, we are expected to grow spiritually. Jesus told some new believers that to be ‘disciples indeed’ they needed to continue [abide] in His word. Peter tells us, 2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

Psalm 119:18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.



Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry