위로부터 태어남 - 요한복음 3장 3절에 쓰인 γεννηθῇ ἄνωθεν의 의미와 역할에 대한 연구

In this paper, I have attempted to suggest possible meaning and function of the phrase, “γeννηθῇ ἄνωθeν” in the context of the Johannine community and in understanding Nicodemus. The Johannine community which was experiencing a crisis caused by the excommunication from the Jewish synagogue and inner conflicts among members tried to establish a new identity of “those who were born from above” and create a communal unity through the expression, “γeννηθῇ ἄνωθeν.” Although “γeννηθῇ ἄνωθeν” has a role of an “anti-language” and a rhetorical device of “misunderstanding,” it actually functions as an “invitational language” for Nicodemus in terms of being part of the vocabulary of Jesus-followers who accept a new identity of being “born from above” through water and the Spirit.