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STEP TWO:  I REALIZE  THAT I CANNOT SAVE MYSELF.

PAINTING #3:  THE REBIRTH

"Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again,
he cannot see the kingdom of God."   -  John 3:3

'The Rebirth'  by  Alton Felix. 2012.  Acrylic on Canvas.  41 cm x 31 cm. 

Artist's Commentary:

There is no other way to inherit the kingdom of God except by the rebirth - the 'born again' experience. We cannot save ourselves. Jesus told Nicodemus:

         "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."   -  John 3:3

Being 'born again' does not mean that the natural birth process has to repeated. However, the  painting seeks to capture some of the similarities between the two.  First, the pain experienced in child-birth is usually intense, and  may be a similar  experience for those who must make painful decisions when coming to Christ, for example,  about 'unhealthy' relationships and  sinful pleasures of the past . Making a decision to become a Christian, albeit wonderful, is a major and serious decision that can hurt some persons as the new convert changes his life. The 'red-eyed' figure in the painting, grimacing in pain, illustrates this transition phase.

Second, just as the baby is separated from the mother by the cutting of the umbilical cord, there is a separation from our sinful lifestyle during the 'born again' experience. The female figure at the top left of the painting shows this final and successful stage of this birth process.  

Third, the birth of a child brings a 'new mind' into this world. The 'born again' experience also entails the 'renewing' of the mind of the  believer. Romans 12:2 says,

          "... but  be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.."

In the painting a 'babyish' figure sits upon the head of the 'red-eyed' figure as a metaphor for the 'renewal of the mind.'

Fourth, the dependence of the child on the mother for its nurturing is mirrored in our 'child-like' dependence on God and His Word for our spiritual nourishment and development. This dependence is seen by the 'red-eyed' figure lying on his back, as a helpless baby would lie in a crib, and taking hold of the Lord's hand for guidance.  

Fifth, the painting shows that the depth of  love a mother has for her child. This is akin to the love that God has for mankind.

This is my interpretation of the painting. What do you see, and what is your interpretation of the piece?

All honour and glory belong to God, and His Son Jesus! Be blessed.  

 View Painting #4: The Washing 

Kindly share on  your social media as you  invite your family and friends to view this exhibition. Thank you.   

Posted: 28/12/18