Why is regeneration necessary to know Christ?

Regeneration, described in Titus 3:5, is the transformative work of the Holy Spirit that brings a person to spiritual life. According to John 1:12-13, it is not by human effort or will that one comes to faith, but through the sovereign work of God. John the Baptist's own admission of not initially knowing Jesus (John 1:31) serves as a powerful illustration of this need for divine revelation. Without regeneration, individuals are spiritually dead, lacking the capacity to recognize or accept the truth of Christ as their Savior. Thus, it is a necessary work of grace that enables believers to see and trust in Christ.