All of this explains why Jesus makes the new birth a command and holds you responsible. If the Spirit forced Himself on you, you would have no say in the matter. But He created you with a mind and will of your own. You decide to accept or reject the Spirit’s seed. You choose to submit or rebel when that Gospel requires repentance and baptism for your sins to be forgiven.
What an amazing ability! You can freely accept the wonderful new life Jesus offers. But be warned: you are not free to escape the result of your decision. If you “do not obey the Gospel” you do choose Satan and his fiery end.
… you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God… (1 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
How needless to suffer on earth and then in eternity. Jesus earnestly desires a far better result from your ability to choose. He gave His very life for you to share His joy, beginning now and lasting forever. Will you accept His invitation? Will you share in His death and resurrection by baptism? Will you let His blood wash away all guilt and all shame?
Let your Study Helper know immediately about your decision so that we may encourage and help you in obeying the Gospel. Then pass on the Spirit’s invitation to your loved ones and to others. The greatest danger any person faces is eternal punishment. The greatest need is to enter eternal life through the new birth of water and Spirit. There is no greater joy than living at peace with your Creator, who loves you and wants you to be His child. You can give no greater gift than the Good News. Accept the saving seed, submit to it, and then share it!
The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price (Revelation 22:17).