Born anew or born again , like eternal life , is another frequently misunderstood phrase, one that many people make equivalent to saying a prayer at the end of a booklet or tract, or having an emotional experience at the end of a church service. It often signifies a status achieved through some belief or experience, so that it becomes an adjective: “I’m a born-again Christian.” But it’s clear that Jesus isn’t just talking about a religious experience or status Nicodemus needs to acquire like some sort of certification. No, Jesus is saying, “Nicodemus, you’re a Pharisee. You’re a respected
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