Christian language can carry a lot of meaning in a few words. Here are starting explanations, with places to read more. Different Christian communities may use these phrases in different ways.
Born again
A phrase Christians use for a new beginning in life with God. It is connected to Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, where the language of birth raises questions about spiritual life.
The fruit of the Spirit
A picture of qualities Christians associate with the Holy Spirit’s work in a person’s life. Galatians 5:22–23 names qualities including love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness. “Fruit” is a metaphor, not a reference to a special kind of food.
Washed in the blood
A striking metaphor Christians use when speaking about forgiveness through Jesus’ death. It draws on biblical imagery of sacrifice and cleansing; it does not mean literal washing. Compare the language in Revelation 7:14.
The old self and the new self
Sometimes called the “old man” and “new man,” this language describes leaving behind an old way of living and taking up a life shaped by Christ. Read it in its surrounding discussion in Ephesians 4:17–32.
An unblemished lamb
A lamb without a defect, language connected with sacrifice. In Christian writing it can describe Jesus and his sacrificial death. 1 Peter 1:18–21 is one place to explore that connection.
The Lord works in mysterious ways
A familiar expression of trust when events are difficult to understand. It is not a direct Bible verse. Ask what someone means by it rather than assuming it answers the question of suffering. Sometimes listening to a person’s pain is more helpful than offering a familiar phrase.
Keep asking what a word means
Context and the person using a phrase both matter. “What do you mean by that?” is a reasonable question. Explore Christianese 101 for more on making Christian language understandable.
Sources & further reading
A question in the margin is a good place to begin.