Born Again?

When Nicodemus was told by Jesus that "no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again" (John 3:3), he was perplexed. He countered, "How can a man be born again when he is old?" (V. 4).

Scholars and church leaders have been debating that thought for centuries since. Some suggest it happens at baptism, some say at the point of faith and others add sacraments and such. But I think all these arguments miss the point, which is not regarding a method but a reality.

What I mean is, the fact of being born again has to do with the individual not an activity. Being born again suggests that we must become new, like Paul affirmed in 2 Cor 5:17).  Being born again says that I become different - that I see things differently, that I want things differently.

One can be baptized like Simon the Sorcerer and face condemnation (cf Acts 8:9-24) or believe as do the demons but not see the kingdom (cf James 2:19). But when one gives up his own self to follow Jesus, everything is seen from a new perspective - that of a follower of Jesus. When He is our Master, we go where he sends us, do what He bids us and want what glorifies His name.

Jesus said, "those of you who do not give up everything you have, you cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33).  You cannot stay the way you are and become the way He is.  Being a disciple means becoming like one's master. Are you ready to do that. Are you ready to start again, to be reborn?

Jus' Askn.