Verse 18.— Of his own will begat he us. God is the author of the system of faith proclaimed to the world. The scheme of human redemption is the product of the infinite love of our Father in heaven. The gospel of his Son must be proclaimed. This heard, understood and received makes man alive. It imparts life. He is begotten With the word of truth. The gospel is the word of truth. The word of God is the seed of the kingdom; it is God's power unto salvation. It is this gospel, the word of truth, by which all the children of God are begotten, and become the first fruits of his creatures. First, a begetting, a making alive, or imparting life. This is done by the word of truth, and afterwards a birth. Life is then enjoyed.