Christianity contains many sects and variations. Those considered “Born Again” Christians follow a sect based on developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Believers follow a literal translation of a passage in the King James Bible stating Jesus told his followers they must be born again.
Critics state this is a mistranslation of a passage about being devoted to Christ’s priorities. But in some evangelical churches, this is taken to mean one must literally undergo a “rebirth” devoting yourself to the church.
But is this path dangerous? People have come to critique the behaviors of people who follow this path. Yet the criticism may pertain more to how doctrine is interpretated rather than the doctrine itself.
Firstly, What is Born-Again Christianity?
Born-again is a term in Christianity that is not clearly defined. Though it may have numerous variations, this term relates to fundamentalist views on Christianity and a belief in “regeneration” or being committed to Christ through a ritual.
Many people claim Born Again Christianity gave them new perspective and a chance to reform from hopelessness and personal problems.
This sect of Christianity and the phrase “Born Again” refers to a passage in John Three in which Jesus tells Nicodemus, “No one can see the Kingdom of God unless they are born again.” Rather than understanding this as symbolic, believers in this faith interpret this literally.
Although Nicodemus admits in this passage that he does not understand what Christ means, suggesting this may be open to interpretation, Born Again Christians choose to see the process of being Born Again as instrumental to entry into Heaven.
But, What are the perceived dangers of Born Again Christianity? Why are some scared of becoming Born Again Christians? Let us see..
A Thoughtful Exploration of the Dangers of Born Again Christianity
The Danger of Literal Interpretation:
One critique of this tradition is that it is based on a literal interpretation of the Bible. In modern times, applying literal interpretations of an ancient text from any faith can lead to complications.
The movement to impose fundamentalist beliefs in a political sphere in a non-theocratic state can lead to potential marginalization of people who do not agree with or follow this faith.
There is also concern from some critical of this faith that following a literal interpretation of the Bible can be dangerous as it does not allow for flexibility in adaptation of modern technology, science, and other paradigm changes since the text was written. This can cause problems for example when medical recommendations clash with biblical instructions.
Perceived Pressure to Convert
Some people who engage in this path and then change their mind, describe being pressured to convert. The fear of eternal punishment in Hell if one is not Born Again can be traumatic for people who are unsure if they want to follow this path.
People who follow this faith also describe pressure to convert their loved ones. After all, if they believe eternal damnation awaits all who are not converted, members of this faith would naturally fear for the salvation of their loved ones.
The infringement on the boundaries of loved ones who are not interested in this specific form of salvation by well-intentioned practitioners who want to ensure their loved ones can enter Heaven can erode close relationships.
Further, people who are able to maintain relationships with loved ones who do not convert can live in constant fear for the long-term salvation of their loved ones. Thus some criticize this faith for the pressure it creates on followers to convert others.
Who Holds the Key to Salvation?
Another criticism of the Born Again Christian faith is that it puts pressure on believers to take responsibility for the repentance and rebirth of others. Even some in the faith hold the criticism that people get too carried away with the presumption that they are responsible for others’ salvation.
Well, the process by which people find salvation in this faith is through a ritual of repentance and embracing a relationship based on faith. But the intention is that God provides the miracle of transformation that being Born Again is all about. When people who mean well take on the role of converting others, they face a danger of ego involvement and misguided sense of power over others.
The faith specifically may not be to blame in this case, but the exploitation of this faith by some people who then take advantage of congregants. In some cases, Born Again Christians become dependent on their church leaders who gladly encourage such dependency. In extreme cases, people who corrupt this faith can use their status to demand financial gifts and exploit the work of their congregants.
Some congregants are led to believe their church leaders are intermediaries between them and God. This can lead to churches acting more as cults. If not careful, the attitude of exclusivity and a judgmental nature can ensue, leaving some out of the church leaders’ favor unless they acquiesce to their pastors.
Conclusion
The Born-Again Christian faith has helped many people develop a relationship with spirituality through their religion. But critics express concern about this faith giving too much power to church leaders, which has been abused in some cases.
The literal translation of the Bible and the insistence on conversions to avoid an eternity in Hell can lead to gaslighting and trauma in relationships.
Angela Kaufman is a Certified Intuitive Consultant, Psychic Medium, Intuitive Empowerment, Life Coach and an LCSW. She is an amazon published author and was Featured on several shows like Discovery Channel’s A Haunting, Echoes from the Past (2007) 14 Degrees: A Paranormal Documentary, Tune In to Wellness Today with LisaMarie Tersigni, and Empowering Entrepreneurs with Melissa Carter as well as numerous radio interviews. She is the author of Queen Up! Reclaim Your Crown When Life Knocks You Down - Unleash the Power of Your Inner Tarot Queen and also co-authored three books on metaphysical spirituality (Sacred Objects, Sacred Space; Everyday Tools for the Modern Day Witch | Wicca What's the Real Deal? Breaking Through the Misconceptions | The Esoteric Dream Book; Mastering the Magickal Symbolism of the Subconscious Mind). Angela regularly conducts workshops, the Inner Queen coaching program and loves writing articles, that blend social criticism with spirituality.