The word *gennao* (G1080), as used in I Peter 1:23, is the root of *anagennao*, which means to beget or bear again. This term indicates a spiritual rebirth, emphasizing that those addressed are already born spiritually, not merely begotten. The imagery of feeding on milk, as seen in I Peter 2:1-2, supports this understanding, as only a child already born would partake in such nourishment. Similarly, the metaphor of eating and drinking in Hebrews 5:13-14 reinforces the concept of spiritual birth having occurred, as these actions are fitting only for those who have progressed beyond mere begettal. There is no scriptural indication of being begotten but not yet born; the progression to spiritual birth is evident long before the resurrection of the dead.

The Greek word *gennao* (G1080) is central to the discussion of being born again, carrying significant implications for how God perceives us spiritually. This term helps clarify whether we are seen as merely conceived by His Holy Spirit, still growing in the womb, or as fully functioning adults in the faith after receiving His Spirit. The concept tied to *gennao* emphasizes a spiritual transformation, marking the beginning of a new chapter of life focused on being spiritually minded and maturing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. A person becomes part of God's Kingdom by being born again through this process, as described by *gennao*, and thus becomes a son of God. Scripture indicates that those who are born again, through the spiritual rebirth implied by *gennao*, are already considered by God as part of His Kingdom, not merely awaiting a future resurrection.

The Greek word *gennao* (G1080) underlies the English translation often rendered as "born again" or "born anew" in most Bibles. This term can also be translated as "begotten again" or, as implied by the context, "born from above." None of these translations are technically incorrect, as the term, when used by Jesus Christ, indicates a significant spiritual change occurring in the life of an already living person. The preference for "born from above" aligns with the context, emphasizing the change initiated by God's action. Herbert Armstrong chose to interpret *gennao* as "begotten again" to stress that repentance and acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior mark only the beginning of a journey. His intent was to highlight that the responsibility to grow and overcome continues, ensuring that God's purpose of creating one in the image of Jesus Christ is fulfilled through a process leading to sanctification and ultimately glorification in the Kingdom of God. In the discussion of *gennao*, Bullinger notes in The Companion Bible that Nicodemus misunderstands the term, using it in relation to a mother, while Jesus Christ employs it in reference to the father, meaning begetting. Significantly, Jesus Christ consistently uses the male figure of the Father in His teaching on being born again or born from above, with no mention of a mother or womb, underscoring that the Father is the Creator in this spiritual transformation.