What does water represent in John 3:5?

Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit.” (John 3:5) 

We believe that Jesus is referring to spiritual birth in heaven (“the kingdom of God”), the reward promised to those who have recognized their sinful natures, asked for forgiveness and have chosen to deny their own wills in order to do the will of God. “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23) You asked what the word “water” represents in John 3:5. “Water” in scripture usually symbolizes truth, as we believe it does in this scripture. Water similarly refers to cleansing or purifying by the Word of truth. “Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any blemish, but holy and blameless.” (Ephesians 5:25-27) 

The holy spirit, also mentioned in John 3:5, we believe refers to understanding of the water of truth (knowledge). “But the Counselor, the holy spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” (John 14:26) It is evident that both the water of truth (knowledge of God’s word) and the spirit of truth (understanding of His word through the holy spirit) are essential elements for the Christian’s entry into the kingdom of heaven. 

What does “water” symbolize in John 3:5? It symbolizes truth through the word of God found in the Bible.

To learn more about baptism listen to, “How Many Baptisms Are There?”

To learn more about the holy spirit listen to, “How Can I Get the Holy Spirit?”