Faith without religion.
Spiritual Rebirth and Divine Love
In a teaching session from August 25, 2013, the focus was on John 3:1-8, particularly the concept of being “born again” or “born from above.” The discussion emphasized that these passages are often misinterpreted as supporting baptismal regeneration, but they actually do not mention water baptism. Instead, the text highlights a spiritual rebirth necessary to see and enter the Kingdom of God.
Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus is central to this teaching. Nicodemus, a Jewish leader, was puzzled by the idea of being born again, as Jews believed they were already God’s children by birth. Jesus clarified that spiritual rebirth is essential for everyone, including Jews, and is distinct from physical birth. This rebirth is likened to the wind—its effects are visible, but its origin and destination are not.
The teaching further explored the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which brings about a new way of seeing the world and reprioritizing life’s desires. The ultimate evidence of being born from above is the presence of agape love, a divine love that is impossible to possess without the Holy Spirit. This love is not just a feeling but translates into action, as seen in the commandment to love one another.
The session concluded with the idea that true Christian love is perfected through relationships and interactions with others, and it is through this love that believers know they have passed from death to life. The teaching emphasized that loving God and loving others are inseparable, and this love is the hallmark of being a disciple of Christ.