The Born-Again Phenomenon: A Cover Up for Heresy by W E Best and published by Classics.
There is no portion of Scripture used more, abused worse, and understood less than John 3:1-21. Theologically, this passage of God’s Holy Word is used by denominationalists and nondenominationalists to represent various views concerning soteriology, the science of salvation. Three major systems of belief concerning salvation encompass most professing believers, but all are not true believers. These are the three major systems: (1) baptismal regeneration, (2) faith regeneration, and (3) Spirit regeneration.
Heresy cloaked in Biblical language remains heresy. Because of the nature of this subject, the correct term is heresy, not error. Scriptural terminology is used by many to teach the opposite of what Scripture actually affirms. Although the term “born again” is Biblical, it is being used by politicians to get votes, by athletes who are disobedient concerning the Lord’s day, by local assemblies who attract crowds with entertainers, and by religious leaders who peddle the word of God for profit. Hence, the so-called “born-again Christian” phenomenon has become the fastest growing cult in America.
In no way can John 3:1-21 teach so many divergent views on the science of man’s deliverance from the penalty and condemnation of sin. The idea that God’s word which has been permanently established in heaven and permanently given (Ps. 119:89; Jude 3) can mean different things to different people is ludicrous. Such thinking deserves ridicule because it is an attack on the veracity of God. Nothing is given in time but what was purposed in eternity. Thus, the order for which informed Christians contend is the relation between cause and effect. This order is confirmed in creation (John 1:1-3), redemption (John 3:14-16; Acts 2:23), and regeneration (John 3:1-16).
From the introduction.
