The symbiotic relationship between the sacrifice of Jesus and the Scripture in imparting new life is a profound and integral aspect of Christian theology. This relationship is encapsulated in 1 Peter 1:23, which states:

• 1 Peter 1:23 (NIV): "For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God."

Here's how the sacrifice of Jesus and the Scripture work together to impart new life to believers:

1. The Sacrifice of Jesus: The Basis of New Life

• Redemption and Atonement:
  • The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross is the foundational act of redemption. His blood was shed for the forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14). This sacrificial act provides the basis for reconciliation with God.
• Justification and Reconciliation:
  • Through Jesus’ sacrifice, believers are justified (declared righteous) and reconciled to God (Romans 5:9-10). This makes it possible for them to receive new spiritual life.
• Victory Over Sin and Death:
  • Jesus’ death and resurrection conquer sin and death, enabling believers to live victoriously in the new life He offers (1 Corinthians 15:55-57, Romans 6:4).

2. Scripture: The Means of Imparting New Life

• Living and Enduring Word:
  • Scripture is described as the living and enduring word of God (1 Peter 1:23). It is through hearing and believing this word that individuals come to faith and are born again.
• Revelation of the Gospel:
  • The Bible reveals the gospel—the good news of Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection. It is through this revelation that people understand and accept the salvation offered by Christ (Romans 10:17).
• Agent of Regeneration:
  • The Word of God acts as a seed that brings about new spiritual birth. Just as a seed contains life and brings forth new growth, the Word contains the truth and power that generate new life in believers (James 1:18).

3. Symbiotic Relationship: How They Work Together

• Proclamation of the Sacrifice:
  • The Scripture proclaims the reality and significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. Without the Word, the message of the cross would be unknown. The Bible provides the narrative and theological explanation of Christ’s redemptive work.
• Faith Comes by Hearing:
  • The act of Jesus’ sacrifice is made effective in the life of an individual through faith, which comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). The Word informs and ignites faith in the believer’s heart.
• Transformation and Sanctification:
  • While the sacrifice of Jesus cleanses and redeems, the Scripture transforms and sanctifies. The ongoing work of the Word in a believer’s life shapes them into the image of Christ (John 17:17, Ephesians 5:26).
• Assurance and Growth:
  • The Scripture provides assurance of salvation and the details of God’s promises, encouraging believers to grow in their new life. It is through the Word that believers understand their identity in Christ and the power of His sacrifice (2 Timothy 3:16-17, 1 Peter 2:2).

 The new life that Christians receive is made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus and is imparted through the living and enduring Word of God. Jesus’ sacrifice provides the means of redemption and reconciliation, while Scripture reveals this truth, bringing about faith and regeneration. This symbiotic relationship ensures that believers not only receive new life but also continue to grow and be transformed by the truth of God’s Word. Through Jesus’ sacrifice believers are born again and empowered to live out their new identity in Christ.