Born Again Before N.T.

Here is what the London Baptist Confession of 1689 says on the matter of believers, before the New Covenant was officially begun, being saved or born again.

"Although the price of redemption was not actually paid by Christ until after His incarnation yet the virtue, efficacy, and benefit arising from His payment were communicated to the elect in all ages from the beginning of the world through those promises, types, and sacrifices in which He was revealed and signified as the seed which should bruise the serpent's head, and also the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, for He is the same yesterday, and today, and forever." (This is from point # 6 in chapter 8 under title "Christ the Mediator")

Notice also what Jesus said to Peter, during his earthly ministry, and before the New Covenant formally came into force.

"He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 16: 15-17)

Those who deny that Peter was born again at the time of this incident are forced to affirm that this revelation, given to Peter, as the Christ and Son of God, was not a saving or regeneration experience. This is absurd. All, or nearly all, recognize this revelation as equal to the new birth. Also, note what John said about those who believe Jesus is the Christ.

"Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him." (I John 5: 1)

If Peter, by divine revelation, believed that Jesus was the Christ, in Matthew 16, then he was born again, before the death of Christ, according to the apostle John. I rest my case.