| Born Again vs Salvation |
Added: July-17-04 |
If the same standard of interpretation were used for Hebrews chapter 6 as is used for other biblical subjects, the controversy would be easily settled. The major problem lies in generational tutoring on both sides of the theological fence. This has left the matter biased, unsettled and confusing to many. When the proper mode of interpretation is used we realize that the differing terms "Born Again" and "Salvation" carry different meanings. Hebrews 6 accentuates that fact. The Born Again experience ("once enlightened") is emphasized in verses 4 thru 6, while Salvation is referred to from verses 9 thru 17. They are the two immutable (unchangeable) things or principles by which we have strong consolation as well as an anchor of the soul (v.18). These two unchangeable principles bring to light the context of the entire chapter. That is, first coming to God and then living out the profession. Chapter 6 does not revolve around only one principle, that is, it does not revolve around the laying again of the foundation of the first repentance ("once enlightened").
The Principle Difference: There are several aspects of the Born Again experience. For instance, when one is Born into the family of God by the Spirit, he is also justified, sanctified, regenerated, renewed and a myriad of other things; all of which can be repeated, that is, all except one, the experience of becoming a Born Again person. One cannot be born over and over physically, nor can one be born over and over of the Spirit. Renewed by the Spirit, yes, born over and over, no.
In addition to becoming born of the Spirit, one also becomes a Saved individual. We use the term "Saved" to express our Born Again experience, as did the Apostle Paul many times, but Salvation carries a different meaning than being Born Again. To be "Saved" is to be made safe, protected and delivered. It is possible to be made safe, protected and delivered time and again, whereas, one can only be born once of the Spirit. (Eternal Salvation is conditionally based upon obedience Hebrews 5:9) Therefore, salvation is but a part albeit a very important part-- of the Born Again Experience. The initial Salvation or safety begins at the Born Again experience. To be Born Again is to be born from above, that is, born of the Spirit.
Again, the entire chapter of Hebrews 6 refers to two unchangeable principles. Verses 4-6 speak of those who were once enlightened, or, the Born Again experience. Alongside this first enlightenment we find reference to those who tasted the heavenly gift, the powers of the world to come, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost. Note that these things, as well as being made safe, may be repeated over and over. Only the once enlightenment, that is, the Born Again Experience, is the unrepeated principle. Note also that if they shall fall away (revealing the possibility of falling away) that it is impossible to renew them again to [that initial] repentance. NOT, that it is impossible to renew the tasting, partaking, or even the safety that accompanies the one time enlightenment.
Additional Aspects: #1) Hebrews 6:4-6 reflects that it is impossible to be Born Again over and over and over. This would be like crucifying Christ over and over; like shaming Him over and over every time we sin if we must be Born again --again and again. We cannot be Born Again --Again. True Spiritual re-birth occurs only one time. One cannot lose the experience of being Born. It is as if one slaps his hand on a table. The event cannot be erased. However...
#2) the safety that comes with the Born Again experience may be lost. That is, one may lose his salvation (sotayreeon - safety, protection, and deliverance from judgment); the judgment of God may fall upon him. According to I Corinthians 5:1-5, one may commit sin (see I John 2:1-5) and be liable for chastisement. I Corinthians 11:27-32 reflects that chastisement may come by way of physical sickness, spiritual weakness, or premature death. When we sin, we are to quickly and truly repent of the sin. To remain in sin without repentance is to stray into unprotected, unsafe areas. (The man who was turned over to Satan was not in a safe place!) We are to keep ourselves in the love of God by coming clean with God (Jude 1:21). Again, Hebrews chapter 6 refers to the unchangeable principles of coming to God and living for God.
A friend of mine asked about this subject many years ago. I told him the above. He scratched his head and left. After an hour or so he came back and stated, "Let me see if I have this correct. It's as if you take a potato and cook it." OK, I said. "The potato is safe to eat, but if I do not eat the potato and leave it for a while, it becomes cold." Yes. "If I put the potato back in the oven, I can't re-cook it, because its already cooked, right? I can't cook it, but I can reheat it?" Yes, "So the Born Again experience is like cooking the potato. Also, reheating the potato is like Salvation?" Yes brother, in a manner of speech. So keep your tator warm! (Jude 1:21). By doing so others may feast and see the need to have their own tator cooked
Additional Scriptures of interest to the subject: I John 5:18; Romans 6:16; Hebrews 10:29-39; Ephesians 5:15-17; I Corinthians 9:26-27; II Peter 2:20-22.