New Testament
1 Peter 1:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You have been born again — not from a seed that decays, but from one that is imperishable — through the living and enduring word of God.
Compare translations
Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
What 1 Peter 1:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse tells us that we have been given a fresh start in life, often referred to as being 'born again.' This new beginning doesn’t come from something that fades away, like a plant that wilts, but from something that lasts forever. The source of this new life is the word of God, which is alive and remains constant. It’s not just a one-time event; it’s a continuous process that shapes who we are. This means that we are connected to something eternal and unchanging, which can give us hope and strength. When we embrace this new life, we are invited to grow and thrive in a way that reflects the enduring nature of God’s word. This transformation is not just about our future; it impacts our present, guiding our choices and actions every day. We are part of a living story that connects us to a greater purpose and community, reminding us that we are never alone in our journey of faith and growth. We are invited to live out this new identity with joy and confidence, knowing it is rooted in something everlasting.
How to apply 1 Peter 1:23 to your life
Consider how this new life affects your daily choices. Reflect on the lasting impact of God's word in your life. Embrace the idea that you are part of something greater, and let that inspire you to live with purpose and joy. Share this hope with others around you, encouraging them in their journeys too. Remember, you are not alone in this process!
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Peter Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Peter 1:23
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Peter 1:23
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Peter
- Author
- Peter the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 62-64
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Persecuted Christians in Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Peter 1:23 mean?
1 Peter 1:23 means that believers have been spiritually reborn through God's eternal word. This new birth is not temporary or corruptible, but lasting and transformative, connecting us to a life that reflects God's enduring nature.
What is the meaning of 'born again' in 1 Peter 1:23?
'Born again' in 1 Peter 1:23 refers to a spiritual renewal that gives believers a fresh start in life. It signifies a transformation that comes from embracing the living and everlasting word of God.
How does 1 Peter 1:23 relate to hope?
1 Peter 1:23 relates to hope by assuring believers that their new life is based on God's eternal word, which provides a lasting foundation. This hope encourages them to live purposefully and confidently in their faith.
What themes are present in 1 Peter 1:23?
The themes present in 1 Peter 1:23 include new birth, the enduring nature of God's word, hope, transformation, and the promise of eternal life. These themes highlight the significance of spiritual renewal in a believer's life.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.