The concept of being born again in Christianity is essential to the faith. It stems from the words of Jesus Himself in John chapter three. However, the phrase “born again” has sometimes been associated with a range of misconceptions and misapplications that carry potential dangers. Let’s shed some light on these concerns and offer guidance on adhering to a biblically sound understanding of being born again.
The Biblical Basis for Being Born Again
A New Creation in Christ
At its core, new birth in Christ refers to a spiritual transformation that occurs when a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. In John 3:3, Jesus declares, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”. This new birth is the beginning of a life led by the Spirit and marked by a departure from sin.
Potential Pitfalls
Exclusivity and Judgmentalism
One danger is the notion of exclusivity and the tendency to be judgmental. When ‘born again’ is used to assert spiritual superiority or exclusiveness, it directly contradicts the inclusive love that Jesus demonstrated. Christianity teaches that salvation is a gift of grace available to all who believe, not a status that elevates some above others.
Neglect of Continuous Growth
Another danger lies in the false belief that a one-time decision is the culmination of a believer’s spiritual journey. Being born again is not the end goal but the initiation of a lifelong process of sanctification and spiritual formation. Believers are called to grow in the knowledge of God and maturity in their faith (2 Peter 3:18).
Misunderstanding Grace and Works
Some may interpret the new birth as a freedom to live without moral constraints under the guise of grace. This misunderstanding can lead to antinomianism — the idea that grace makes obedience to God’s moral law unnecessary. True born again Christianity leads to a life empowered by the Holy Spirit to produce good works as a fruit of salvation, not as its basis (Ephesians 2:8-10).
The Risk of Alienation
When misrepresented, ‘Born again’ Christianity can push individuals away from the faith due to perceived hypocrisy or intolerance. It’s essential for believers to reflect the love, humility, and kindness that Jesus preached rather than creating barriers.
