Exegetical Brief: A Rebirth-Washing and a Renewal-Holy Spirit

Abstract

John F. Brug analyzes Titus 3:5, focusing on its chiastic structure and grammatical nuances to clarify the relationship between baptism and the Holy Spirit in the work of salvation. He argues that the verse should be understood as a parallel construction: “God saved us through the washing which works rebirth and through the Holy Spirit who works renewal.” Brug critiques traditional translations that obscure this parallelism and warns against interpretations that separate baptism from its role as a means of grace. Drawing comparisons to John 3:5, he emphasizes that both washing and Spirit are agents of conversion, not independent causes. Brug also discusses the challenges translators face in preserving both word order and theological clarity. Ultimately, he concludes that understanding the broader scriptural context is essential for interpreting genitive constructions and preserving the doctrine of justification. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)