Am I Truly Born Again? Discerning Authentic Faith in 4 Key Principles

Am I Truly Born Again?

We all know that not everyone who claims to be a born-again Christian is a genuine follower of Christ. But how can we discern whether someone who professes new birth actually possesses it? In this article, we will explore this important question and provide biblical insights to help us evaluate our own spiritual condition.

The Gap Between Profession and Possession

A 2017 study by LifeWay Research revealed that 24% of Americans claim to be evangelical, with an even higher percentage claiming to be born again. However, when pressed, only about 15% of Americans can affirm the most basic evangelical beliefs. This disparity between profession and possession is not a new phenomenon. Throughout history, there have always been individuals who profess Christianity without truly embracing its core teachings or exhibiting the fruits of a transformed life.

It is crucial to recognize that the size of this gap varies among different congregations and individuals. Nevertheless, the consistent preaching of the gospel plays a vital role in narrowing this gap. The more the gospel is proclaimed, the greater the potential for genuine transformation to take place.

Evaluating True Regeneration

So, how can we evaluate whether someone truly possesses the new birth experience? While it is ultimately God who knows the heart and judges, there are biblical principles we can apply to discern the authenticity of our own spiritual condition.

1. Fruit of the Spirit

Jesus taught that a tree is known by its fruit (Matthew 7:15-20). In Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are evidence of a transformed heart and a true encounter with Christ. As we examine our lives, do we see the presence of these fruits growing in us?

2. Love for God and Others

Jesus summarized the greatest commandments as loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and loving our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). A genuine believer will have a growing affection for God and a desire to obey His commands. Furthermore, this love will overflow into love for others. As we reflect on our relationships and actions, do we see a genuine love for God and a sacrificial love for those around us?

3. Repentance and Faith

Genuine conversion involves a turning away from sin (repentance) and a turning towards God in faith. In Acts 26:20, Paul speaks of repentance and deeds consistent with repentance. True believers experience a deep sorrow for their sin and a desire to live in obedience to God’s Word. They place their trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Have we experienced this radical change of heart and mind, accompanied by a genuine trust in Christ's finished work on the cross?

4. Abiding in Christ

Jesus uses the analogy of a vine and branches to illustrate the importance of abiding in Him for spiritual growth and fruitfulness (John 15:1-8). True believers will have an ongoing relationship with Christ, characterized by dependence, prayer, and a desire to know and obey His Word. Are we actively abiding in Christ, seeking to deepen our relationship with Him through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers?

Seeking Assurance and Growth

As we evaluate our spiritual condition, it is important to approach this process with humility and a desire for growth. Rather than seeking a one-time assurance of salvation, we should strive for a living, ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ.

Remember, our assurance of salvation does not rest on our performance or feelings, but on the finished work of Christ on the cross. The Holy Spirit also plays a vital role in affirming our adoption as children of God (Romans 8:16). As we seek to grow in our faith, we can pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance, ask for wisdom from mature believers, and immerse ourselves in God's Word.

In conclusion, the gap between profession and possession of genuine faith exists, but we can seek assurance and growth by examining the evidence of the Spirit's work in our lives, our love for God and others, our repentance and faith, and our abiding relationship with Christ. Let us continuously evaluate our spiritual condition, relying on God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit to transform us into the image of Christ.

May we strive to be true followers of Jesus, producing the fruits of the Spirit, and living out our faith in love and obedience. May our lives be a testimony to the transformative power of the gospel, both in the present and for generations to come.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the original content from Desiring God, which can be found here.