Regeneration (theology)

Regeneration in Christian theology is a doctrine related to spiritual rebirth or being "born again." Calvinism and Arminianism differ over the placement of regeneration in the order of steps in salvation, with the former holding that regeneration precedes faith [cite book |chapterurl=http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/sproul01.html |chapter=Regeneration precedes faith |title=The Holy Spirit |publisher=Tyndale House |date=1990 |author=R. C. Sproul |accessdate=2008-04-22] [cite book |author=J. I. Packer |chapterurl=http://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/articles/onsite/packer/regeneration.html |chapter=Regeneration |title=Concise Theology |publisher=Tyndale |isbn=9780842339605 |accessdate=2008-04-22 |quote=Regeneration is monergistic: that is, entirely the work of God the Holy Spirit. It raises the elect among the spiritually dead to new life in Christ (Eph. 2:1-10). Regeneration is a transition from spiritual death to spiritual life, and conscious, intentional, active faith in Christ is its immediate fruit, not its immediate cause. Regeneration is the work of what Augustine called 'prevenient' grace, the grace that precedes our outgoings of heart toward God.] and the latter that it follows faith.

In Catholicism, Lutheranism and Orthodoxy regeneration takes place in the sacrament of baptism (see John 3:5, Tit. 3:5).

ee also

* Prevenient grace

References