The Washing of Regeneration • Deshen Daily

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost (Tit. 3:5 KJV)

Washing of regeneration showing two babies in the bathtub

Embrace the awe-inspiring work of the Holy Spirit in our salvation journey. When a person’s heart opens to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, remarkable, transformative changes take place within. Titus 3:5 illuminates two pivotal operations of the Spirit: the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost.

Consider a cloth stained with oil and paint. A thorough washing removes every trace of dirt, restoring the cloth to its original, unstained state. In a similar way, at our spiritual rebirth, the Spirit of God meticulously cleanses us, washing away all traces of our past sins. This divine purification, akin to a heavenly bath, utilizes the soap and water of His Spirit and Word.

This initial cleansing, referred to by Paul as the “washing of regeneration,” signifies that you have been washed, sanctified, and cleansed at the new birth. Yet, as we navigate life on Earth and occasionally stain our spiritual garments, the Spirit offers a continual cleansing, renewing us daily as we present our lives to Him.

But the work of God at salvation extends beyond mere cleansing. He renews and regenerates us, bringing into existence a new creation infused with His divine nature—the essence of the new birth, regeneration, or born-again experience.

So at salvation, you were cleansed and reborn! You are, indeed, God’s masterpiece!

Meditate

Consider the “soap and water” the Holy Spirit uses for our spiritual cleansing. How do scriptures like John 15:3 and Eph. 5:26 depict this process?

Apply The Word

Understanding and internalizing the truth of your spiritual regeneration lays the groundwork for the sanctification of your soul. God’s command to be holy in mind and body isn’t a demand for the impossible. Rather, it’s an invitation to express outwardly what has been inwardly transformed in your spirit.

Pray

Express gratitude to the Lord for the sanctifying work of the Spirit. Seek His guidance to manifest this inner transformation in every aspect of your life.