How do we know regeneration is essential for salvation?

Regeneration, or being born again, is crucial because it marks the transformation from a natural state of sin to a spiritual state of life. Peter teaches that we are born again, not of corruptible seed but of incorruptible, signifying that our new birth is through the eternal word of God. This rebirth instills in us a new identity in Christ and a renewed capacity to live according to God's will. Without this transformation, our sinful nature would prevail, leading to spiritual death. The Spirit's work is vital for any possibility of faith and obedience.