Do born again Christians believe in Mary?
The question of whether born again Christians believe in Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a topic that often sparks debate among religious scholars and believers alike. Born again Christians, also known as evangelicals, adhere to a specific set of beliefs that focus on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This article aims to explore the views of born again Christians regarding the veneration of Mary and the role she plays in their faith.
Understanding Born Again Christianity
Born again Christians emphasize the importance of a personal conversion experience, where they accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This experience is often referred to as being “born again.” The core beliefs of born again Christians include the authority of the Bible, the need for salvation through faith in Jesus, and the importance of living a life that reflects Christian values.
The Role of Mary in Born Again Christianity
While born again Christians respect Mary as the mother of Jesus, their beliefs regarding her role and veneration differ from those of Catholics and Orthodox Christians. Born again Christians generally do not participate in the veneration of Mary or the celebration of her feast days, such as the Assumption of Mary.
Respectful Acknowledgment
Born again Christians acknowledge Mary’s significant role in the New Testament as the mother of Jesus. They believe that she was chosen by God to bear the Son of God and that her life was marked by obedience and faith. However, they do not attribute divine qualities to her or consider her to be a co-redemptrix or Mediatrix of all grace, as some Catholic traditions do.
Focus on Jesus
Instead of focusing on Mary, born again Christians prioritize their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They believe that salvation comes through faith in Jesus alone and that He is the only mediator between God and humanity. This focus on Jesus as the central figure of their faith influences their perspective on Mary and her role in their lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while born again Christians respect Mary as the mother of Jesus, they do not venerate her in the same way as Catholics and Orthodox Christians. Their beliefs emphasize the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and His role as the sole mediator between God and humanity. As such, Mary remains an important figure in their lives, but her role is secondary to their devotion to Jesus.
