573. The expression "born again," which means, as it were, created anew, is here used because "to be created" signifies to be regenerated. That this is the signification of "to be created" in the Word can be seen from the following passages:
Create for me a clean heart, O God; and renew a firm spirit in the midst of me (Ps. 51:10). Thou openest Thy hand, they are satisfied with good; Thou sendest forth Thy spirit, they are created (Ps. 104:28, 30). A people that shall be created shall praise Jah (Ps. 102:18). Behold I will create Jerusalem a rejoicing (Isa. 65:18). Thus hath said Jehovah, Thy Creator, O Jacob, and thy Former, O Israel, I have redeemed thee. Everyone that is called by My name, into My glory have I created him (Isa. 43:1, 7). That they may see, know, consider and understand, that the Holy One of Israel hath created it (Isa. 41:20). (And elsewhere. ) Also where the Lord is called Creator, Former and Maker. This makes clear what is meant by these words of the Lord to His disciples:
Going into all the world, preach ye the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15);
"creatures" meaning all who are capable of regeneration. (So also in Apoc. 3:14; 2 Cor. 5:16, 17. )
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