2697. 'Lift the boy up' means the spiritual as regards truth. This is clear from the meaning of 'the boy' as the spiritual, in particular as regards truth, dealt with in 2677, 2687. For the member of the spiritual Church is regenerated seemingly by means of the truths of faith; but he is not aware that in fact he is regenerated by means of the good allied to truth. For that good is not observable, but presents itself solely in the affection for truth, and after that in a life according to truth. In no way can anyone be regenerated by means of truth unless good accompanies that truth, for truth devoid of good has no life. Consequently no new life at all can come through truth separated from good; but a person acquires it through regeneration.