1:23 Genuine and enduring love for others (v. 22) is possible only because of the love God has first shown to us in giving us the new birth in Christ (John 13:35; 1 John 4:7–11).

born again. See note 1:3; “Regeneration: The New Birth” at John 3:3.

perishable . . . imperishable. Peter compares and contrasts human procreation with the life-giving power of God’s Word (Luke 8:11).

through the . . . word of God. God’s Word is used by the Holy Spirit as an instrument to bring sinners to a knowledge of God’s grace in Jesus Christ (Heb. 4:12; James 1:18).