Scripture: John 3:5 (ESV) – “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’”
John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, emphasizes the clarity and importance of Jesus’ response to Nicodemus. Jesus expands on the necessity of being “born again,” specifying that this new birth involves both “water and the Spirit.” Calvin interprets this as a reference to spiritual cleansing and renewal, underscoring the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in salvation.
Calvin rejects the notion that “water” here refers merely to baptism as a physical ritual. Instead, he sees it as symbolic of the cleansing and purifying work of God. Baptism is a visible sign of this inward reality, pointing to the grace of regeneration that the Spirit brings. The Spirit’s role is central; it is through the Spirit that believers are given new life, washed of sin, and made new creations in Christ.
Calvin also stresses the exclusivity of Jesus’ statement: without this spiritual rebirth, no one can “enter the kingdom of God.” This shows the insufficiency of human effort, morality, or religious rituals to bring about salvation. The entrance into God’s kingdom requires a complete transformation, wrought by God’s power, not man’s.
This verse calls us to reflect on the source of our salvation. It challenges us to examine whether we are trusting in external actions or the inward renewal of the Spirit. Calvin’s insights remind us that salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace, bringing us into His kingdom by cleansing us from sin and giving us new life.
Reflection Questions:
- How does Jesus’ teaching about being born of “water and the Spirit” challenge your understanding of salvation?
- Are you relying on external rituals or personal efforts, or are you trusting in the Spirit’s transformative work in your life?
- How can you more fully embrace the reality of spiritual cleansing and renewal through the Holy Spirit?
Prayer:
Lord God, thank You for teaching us the necessity of being born of water and the Spirit. Cleanse us from sin and renew our hearts through the power of Your Spirit. Help us to trust not in our own efforts but in Your grace to bring us into Your kingdom. Teach us to live as new creations, reflecting the work You have done in us. May we always seek Your Spirit’s guidance and power in our journey of faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This devotional is based on John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:5, exploring his insights on spiritual cleansing and renewal through the Spirit.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 