These ones that Jesus spoke of were at one time spiritually dead. However, once they had an opportunity to hear the gospel, they put faith in Jesus Christ and gave up their former sinful life.
1 JOHN 3:14: What Does John Mean by ‘Passing Over from Death to Life’?
“Love is not merely an optional duty for someone claiming to be a Christian, but proof positive that a person truly has been born again.”—John MacArthur.