In our home group we are currently going through my book Frisse Kijk and these past weeks we discussed chapter ten: rebirth. We had interesting discussions about 'being born again', but at the same time I noticed that not everyone present was so sure about what the Bible says about the subject. I decided it would be useful to write down some basics in a new blog series. So, here we go....
In most churches there is not a lot of teaching on this subject. Maybe because in some denominations it is considered normal (give your heart to Jesus and you are born again) while in other denominations it is not part of the theology (we have inherited a Christian tradition). Yet, I believe every Christian should understand what it means to be born again (also called new birth or spiritual birth) and be able to explain it to someone else.
There are several places in the Bible where we can find scriptures about 'being born again', but the most famous and most used verses are written down in John, chapter 3. Jesus is speaking about the subject with Jewish scholar Nicodemus and tells him (verse 3): Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. See the Kingdom of God... can you see it? Do you understand what that means? We cannot see (or understand/grasp) the Kingdom* (which Jesus spoke about very often) unless we are born again. Wow, that's pretty straight forward talk. It shows how important it is to be born again.
Jesus is talking about the opening of our spiritual eyes so we can SEE (understand) His Kingdom for what it is: not a place or a country, but a spiritual realm where righteousness, peace and joy reign, with power. Why do we often talk and act so difficult, complicated or even vague when it comes to the need of being born again, especially within the church...? In verse 7 of the same chapter Jesus says: You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ Do not be surprised! It is normal.
Marja: You have good thoughts about the spiritual rebirth that Christians go through.
ReplyDeleteThank you Cecelia, I always like to keep it simple and biblical... can't go wrong that way :)
DeleteI think it's true that church don't spend a lot of time on this, but it is important to grasp. Great post!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jennifer, I am not blaming the church, but I simply believe a recap of such important matters will be helpful!
DeleteGood reminder, Marja! I think we do need to review the basics and make sure we know what and why we believe.
ReplyDeleteReviewing the basics... hhmm, that would be a good title for a series. You have me thinking :) Thanks Karen.
DeleteSo true, Marja. It really boils down to faith and love, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteand hope... the greatest three indeed :)
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