WHAT IS THE WATER IN JOHN 3:5?

[David in NJ]

I'm not intending for this thread to become argumentative.
Just looking for explanations for differing interpretations.

My belief is that it could be BAPTISM or PHYSICAL BIRTH.
I've always had a difficult time with this verse, but it doesn't warrant a debate.
The salvation of our soul is not at risk....

Was not me causing any argument but those who oppose the direct wording of Scripture

My posts are the same as Post 156 which you agreed with = who is arguing with who?

 

[Hepzibah]

So then WATER is the Spirit both times??

It seems to me that those that believe that WATER means SPIRIT are actually saying this:
John 3:5
one must be born of spirit and the spirit......

Am I wrong?


John 3:5
5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless * one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot * enter into the kingdom of God.

I think it has something to do with the cleansing from sin, to be made pure as well as the work of the Spirit (for the second time).

 

[PS95]

This makes sense to me and will probably be my end belief.
Nicodemus even asked how he could go back into his mother's womb.
Jesus did not correct him but doubled down after telling N he must be born again.
Thanks!

John 3:3-6
3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless * one is born again he cannot * see the kingdom of God."
4 Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot * enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?"

5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless * one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot * enter into the kingdom of God.
6 "That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

exactly. always read context!