How does regeneration affect our relationship with God?

unites us with God
leaves us ashamed to stand before God
separates us from God
prompts us to flee God
leaves us afraid of God

1 answer

Regeneration, as understood in Christian theology, refers to the spiritual renewal or rebirth of a person who has accepted faith in Christ and received the Holy Spirit. This transformative process profoundly affects a believer’s relationship with God. Among the options you presented, "unites us with God" is the most appropriate answer.

Here’s a brief explanation of each option:

  1. Unites us with God: Regeneration brings about a new birth (John 3:3) that enables believers to enter into a personal relationship with God. It signifies a transformation where the believer is no longer an enemy of God but is reconciled and united with Him through faith in Jesus Christ.

  2. Leaves us ashamed to stand before God: While sin can lead to feelings of shame, regeneration offers forgiveness and redemption, allowing individuals to approach God with confidence and assurance of His grace (Hebrews 4:16).

  3. Separates us from God: Regeneration is meant to do the opposite. It reconnects us with God after the separation brought by sin (Isaiah 59:2).

  4. Prompts us to flee God: True regeneration instills a desire to seek God rather than flee from Him, as believers are drawn to Him by the Holy Spirit.

  5. Leaves us afraid of God: While there is a healthy fear of God that involves reverence and awe, regeneration instills a sense of belonging and love (1 John 4:18), allowing believers to approach God as loving children rather than mere subjects of fear.

In summary, regeneration fundamentally transforms our relationship with God by uniting us with Him, enabling us to live in relationship with Him rather than in separation or fear.