UNDERSTANDING THE CONCEPT OF BEING "BORN AGAIN"
PHOTO: FACEBOOK PAGE OF AKSYON APOLOGIA
AUTHOR: KEN KLARK L. FLORES
ORIGINAL FILIPINO PUBLISHED: APRIL 23, 2025 AT 9:15 PM, AT AKSYON APOLOGIA FACEBOOK PAGE
The concept of being "Born Again" is a fundamental doctrine in Christianity, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of John. In John 3:3-5, Jesus emphasized the importance of spiritual rebirth, saying:
"Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus asked, 'How can a man be born again when he is old? He cannot enter his mother's womb to be born again.' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.'" (John 3:3-5)
What does "Born Again" mean?
Being Born Again refers to a spiritual transformation that occurs when an individual accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This experience is often marked by a sense of repentance, faith, and a commitment to follow Jesus. According to MacArthur (1985), “Being born again is a sovereign act of God, whereby He gives new spiritual life to a repentant sinner, enabling him to see and enter the kingdom of God” (p. 1434).
The role of water in Spiritual Rebirth
The mention of “water” in John 3:5 has caused debate among scholars and theologians. Some interpret it as a reference to physical water, such as rivers or streams, while others see it as a symbol of cleansing and spiritual transformation. In the context of baptism, water represents a powerful symbol of cleansing and new life. As the apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore we were buried with him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4).
The Baptism as the symbol of cleansing
Baptism is often seen as a symbol of cleansing and spiritual transformation. In 1 Peter 3:21, the apostle Peter wrote, “This water is a picture of baptism that saves us through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is not the washing away of the dirt of the body, but our promise to God that we will no longer do anything that we know is contrary to his will.” According to Grudem (1994), “Baptism is a symbol of the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ” (p. 968).
Conclusion
In conclusion, being Born Again is a core Christian doctrine that emphasizes the importance of spiritual rebirth. While the role of water in spiritual rebirth is subject to interpretation, baptism remains a powerful symbol of cleansing and new life. As we continue this series, "Born Again: Through Water and Spirit," we will explore the importance of baptism and its role in the Christian faith.
References:
- Grudem, W. (1994). Systematic theology: An introduction to biblical doctrine. Zondervan.
- MacArthur, J. (1985). The MacArthur study Bible. Thomas Nelson.
Comments
Post a Comment