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NASB | John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 3:3 Jesus answered him, "I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless a person is born again [reborn from above--spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified], he cannot [ever] see and experience the kingdom of God." |
Subject: "Born-again Christian" redundant? |
Bible Note: Zach, soteriologically (pertaining to the doctrine of salvation) the New Testament recognizes only two categories of people: those who are in Christ and those who are not. (See John 3:18; 1 John 5:12). Therefore, the terms "true Christian" and "born-again Christian" are redundant. "Water" in John 3:5 is more than likely referring not to literal water or natural birth. Jesus is probably using an Old Testament metaphor here. Water in the OT was commonly used figuratively to mean renewal or spiritual cleansing. This is especially true when the word "water" is used in conjunction with "spirit." (See Num.19:17-19; Joel 2:28,29; Psalm 51:9,10; Jer.2:13; Isa.55:1-3). Look also at Titus 3:5 which speaks of the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Spirit. To be "born again" -- or born from above -- means to be regenerated and cleansed by the Holy Spirit, which entitles a man to enter the kingdom of God...... Zach, the exegesis is flawed that sees "water" in this context as the physical water of physical birth for this reason: It is unlikely that Jesus would present this as a requirement for Nicodemus' salvation. --Hank |