Born Again (Sermon Blog)
Series: Those Red Letters: Part 5 | May 11, 2025 | Pacific Life Church
What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?
In John 3, Jesus has a life-changing conversation with Nicodemus, a respected religious leader. Though Nicodemus knew the law inside and out, Jesus introduced him to a concept far beyond religion: being born again.
Let’s break down what Jesus was teaching and why it still matters for us today.
1️⃣ Born Again Means a Spiritual Rebirth
Jesus made it clear that no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit (John 3:5-8). While Nicodemus wrestled to grasp this, Jesus explained that this isn’t about human effort or religious law — it’s a spiritual rebirth.
Key Takeaways:
Religion can’t save you; only Jesus can.
Spiritual rebirth changes us from the inside out.
It’s not about behavior modification, but heart transformation through the Holy Spirit.
2️⃣ Born Again Means Receiving a New Identity
Nicodemus’ identity was rooted in his title and religious status. But Jesus offered something better: a new identity in God’s Kingdom.
When you’re born again:
You become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)
You are called children of God (John 1:12)
You are a saint, an heir, an ambassador of Christ, and a citizen of heaven
God’s identity for you is greater than anything this world or culture can offer. Your true, lasting identity comes from Him alone.
3️⃣ Born Again Means Discovering a New Purpose
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us:
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
What does this look like?
Living with daily purpose and intentionality.
Using your gifts, talents, and personality to reflect Jesus.
Bringing value and hope to your family, workplace, and community.
This isn’t about being “nice” — it’s about being the light of the world and carrying God’s Kingdom wherever you go.
4️⃣ Born Again Means a New Destination
The most beautiful promise of all: eternal life.
John 3:16-17 reminds us that God sent His Son not to condemn the world but to save it. When we believe in Him and are born again, we step into a new, eternal destination — one filled with hope, peace, and the promise of heaven.
Have You Been Born Again?
It’s easy to get caught up in religious checklists — going to church, reading the Bible, and doing good things — without experiencing the transforming, life-giving relationship Jesus offers.
The invitation is simple:
Believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord.
Openly declare your faith.
Be born again and step into new life, identity, purpose, and eternity.
Next Step: Baptism at the Bay
If you’ve made a decision to follow Jesus or recently been born again — your next step is baptism!
It’s a beautiful, public declaration of your faith, and we’d love to celebrate that with you.
👉 Sign up for our next Baptism at the Bay here.
Join Us for Part 6 of Those Red Letters
We’ll continue our Those Red Letters series this Sunday. Don’t miss it — let’s keep diving into the life-changing words of Jesus together.