Scripture Reading: Ezekiel 36:24–28

Introduction

A. Have you ever wished you could just start something all over?

B. While we cannot undo anything in the past, God grants us the extraordinary opportunity of starting all over again.

C. This new beginning or new birth takes place when one is baptized in the name of Jesus (John 3:5; Romans 6:4; Acts 2:38).

Discussion

I. What changes occur when we submit to the new birth?

A. All things are made new (2 Corinthians 5:17).

B. We gain access to all spiritual blessings which are only found “in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3–14).

C. We resign the old rules of life and adopt new ones (Ephesians 2:1–3; Colossians 2:13–23).

II. When evidence is there that the new birth has taken place?

A. The change in the individual’s behavior gives evidence that something extraordinary has happened (Ephesians 4:17–6:9).

B. The proof for the one who submits to the new birth lies in the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:19–2:6).

C. The proof to the world is to be seen in the unity of God’s children (Ephesians 2:11–4:6; John 17:21; 13:35; Ezekial 37:15–28).

Conclusion

A. Seeing that it is utterly impossible for corruptible flesh and blood to inherit the incorruptible kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 15:50), it is imperative for all to be born of water and the Spirit (John 3:5).

B. If you wish to be saved “by grace through faith” (Ephesians 2:8), this is the way which the Savior has opened.