Jesus answered, “Most certainly I tell you, unless one is born of water and spirit, he can’t enter into God’s Kingdom. John 3:5 WEB
When Jesus says, “Most certainly I tell you, unless one is born of water and spirit,” his statement implies absolute truth. The word “amen” translates here as most certainly. When a person speaking Aramaic begins a sentence with the word “amen,” that person asserts the believability or faithfulness of his statement. But what does Jesus mean by “water and spirit?”
In this portion of John’s gospel, Jesus teaches a high ranking pharisee named Nicodemus how to enter into the kingdom of heaven. The lesson confuses Nicodemus as Jesus asserts the concept of a man born anew. Jesus says to Nicodemus on John 3:3, “Most certainly, I tell you, unless one is born anew, he can’t see God’s Kingdom. WEB”
Born Again in Christ
Dumbstruck, Nicodemus questions the rationality of a full grown man being born again. In response to Nicodemus’ curiosity, Christ begins to explain the new birth repentant sinners receive in the spirit of God. Spiritual rebirth comes from accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. After accepting Christ, we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
It is less obvious what Christ means by “born of water.” John the Baptist baptized people with water for repentance of sin. This is likely what Jesus refers to here. Unless a man or woman repents and begins to follow the spiritual lead of God, he or she cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth of your holy word. Thank you for the wisdom that comes from studying the scriptures. Help me to share the truth of the gospel with the world. Guide me to live a life that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: He Who Believes
