Justification, Regeneration, and the New Birth, rooted in faith in the blood of Jesus Christ

1. Supporting Scriptures

“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.” (Central text – highlights justification by grace through faith in the blood.)Romans 3:24-25: 

“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (Foundation for the New Birth)John 3:3: 

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of the regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” (Connects salvation to regeneration and the Holy Spirit – key Pentecostal emphasis.)Titus 3:5: 

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Emphasizes grace and faith as the sole basis of salvation.)Ephesians 2:8-9: 

“For as much as ye know that ye were redeemed from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers with the precious blood of Christ, As a lamb without blemish and without spot.” (Highlights the redemptive power of Christ's blood.)1 Peter 1:18-19: 

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (Describes the transformative nature of the New Birth.)2 Corinthians 5:17: 

“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by faith, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.” (Reinforces justification by faith alone.)Galatians 2:16: 

“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Pentecostal emphasis on repentance, baptismreceiving the Holy Ghost as evidence of salvation.)Acts 2:38:  and 

“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.” (Highlights the privilege of becoming children of God through belief.)John 1:12: 

“And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” (Reinforces the necessity of blood sacrifice for forgiveness.)Hebrews 9:22: 

2. In-Depth Bible Study: Justification, Regeneration, and the New Birth (Pentecostal Perspective)

Introduction:

This study explores the foundational doctrines of Justification, Regeneration, and the New Birth – the very heart of the Gospel message. From a Pentecostal viewpoint, these aren't merely theological concepts, but experiential realities empowered by the Holy Spirit. We believe these are not sequential events, but often occur simultaneously, initiated by God’s grace and received through faith.

I. Justification – Declared Righteous (Romans 3:24-25)

Justification is aby God that a sinner is righteous in His sight. It’s notrighteous, but beingrighteous.Definition:  legal declaration  becoming  declared 

Key Elements:

It’s entirely a gift from God, unearned and undeserved. We cannot earn our way to righteousness.Grace: 

Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are– bought back from the slavery of sin.Redemption:  redeemed 

Christ is the propitiation for our sins, satisfying God’s justice. His blood appeases God’s wrath.Propitiation: 

Justification is received throughin the blood of Jesus. It’s a trusting reliance on Christ’s finished work, not on our own efforts.Faith:  faith 

We emphasize the immediate and complete nature of justification. When we believe, we are instantly declared righteous. This isn’t a process; it’s a.Pentecostal Emphasis:  position

II. Regeneration – Made Alive (Titus 3:5, John 3:3)

Regeneration is a. It’s God’s work of making a dead sinner alive in Christ. It’s a supernatural transformation of the inner person.Definition:  spiritual rebirth

Key Elements:

The Holy Spirit cleanses us from the pollution of sin.Washing of Regeneration: 

The Holy Spirit empowers us with new life and a new nature.Renewing of the Holy Ghost: 

Jesus clearly stated the necessity of being "born again" (John 3). This isn’t a physical birth, but a spiritual one.Born Again: 

Regeneration is often accompanied by a distinct spiritual experience – a powerful awareness of God’s presence and a radical change in desires and values. This experience is often, but not always, accompanied by speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance (Acts 2:4). This is considered initial evidence of the Holy Spirit.Pentecostal Emphasis: 

III. The New Birth – A New Creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

The New Birth is the result of Regeneration. It’s becoming ain Christ. The old self is crucified with Christ, and a new self emerges.Definition:  new creature 

Key Elements:

Our old sinful nature and habits are broken. Old Things Pass Away: 

We receive a new heart, a new mind, and a new purpose. All Things Become New: 

We are adopted into God’s family and become heirs with Christ (John 1:12).Sons of God: 

The New Birth isn’t just a change in status; it’s a. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God, bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). We believe in a progressive sanctification, where we continue to grow in holiness throughout our Christian life. Pentecostal Emphasis:  transformation of character

IV. The Role of the Blood of Jesus

Throughout these three doctrines, the blood of Jesus is paramount. It's the means by which justification is secured, regeneration is possible, and the New Birth is realized. The shedding of His blood atones for our sins, cleanses us from all unrighteousness, and empowers us to live a new life. (Hebrews 9:22, 1 Peter 1:18-19).

Conclusion:

Justification, Regeneration, and the New Birth are not separate doctrines, but interconnected aspects of God’s saving work. They are all rooted in grace, received through faith, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. As Pentecostals, we believe these truths are not just to be understood intellectually, but experienced personally – leading to a transformed life and a passionate pursuit of God.