Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m a born-again Christian,” and wondered what that actually means? The phrase might sound unusual—especially if you’re not familiar with the Bible. But it comes straight from a fascinating conversation between Jesus and a religious leader named Nicodemus, recorded in John 3.
Let’s unpack it together.
The Late-Night Visit
Nicodemus was no ordinary man. He was a respected Pharisee, a teacher of religious law, and someone who took his faith seriously. But something about Jesus stirred his heart. So one night, he came to speak with Jesus privately. Maybe he didn’t want to be seen. Maybe he was simply seeking answers. Either way, his curiosity overcame his caution.
He began with a compliment:
“Rabbi,” he said, “We all know that God has sent You to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with You.” (John 3:2, NLT)
But Jesus cut to the heart:
“I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” (John 3:3, NLT)
A Spiritual Rebirth
Nicodemus was confused. “What do You mean?” he exclaimed. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?” (John 3:4, NLT)
Jesus replied,
“I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.” (John 3:5–6, NLT)
To be born again means to experience a spiritual transformation. It’s not about turning over a new leaf or joining a church. It’s about a new beginning—a rebirth that comes only through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Why Do We Need to Be Born Again?
We were all born into a broken world. The Bible teaches that every one of us is born with a sinful nature. That sin separates us from God, no matter how religious or well-meaning we are.
Being born again is God’s solution. It’s not about patching up the old life. It’s about giving us a new heart, a new spirit, and a new identity—as His sons and daughters.
Jesus made it plain:
“So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’” (John 3:7, NLT)
How Does It Happen?
Jesus later explains the way to this new birth:
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, NLT)
To be born again is to believe in Jesus—to trust that He died on the cross for your sins and rose again so you could be forgiven, restored, and made new.
It’s not a ritual. It’s not about working harder or being “good enough.” It’s a moment of surrender, where you open your heart to Jesus and invite Him to change you from the inside out.
A Simple Prayer
If you feel a stirring in your heart—like Nicodemus did—here’s a simple prayer you can pray right now:
Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I believe You died and rose again to forgive my sins and give me new life. I want to be born again—made new by Your Holy Spirit. Come into my life. Forgive me. Change me from the inside out. I choose to follow You. Amen.
Final Thoughts
Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, full of questions. But he didn’t stay there. In John 19:39, we find him again—this time helping prepare Jesus’ body for burial after the crucifixion. He had moved from curiosity to courage… and from religion to relationship.
That same journey is open to all of us.
Being born again isn’t just for “church people.” It’s for anyone who wants to start over, be set free, and walk in a new life with God.
If you prayed that prayer or have more questions about what it means to be born again, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out through my contact page. Let’s talk.
—Mark
