I have always had a concern when connecting/projecting Jesus' directing Nicodemus that he must be born of water and the Spirit to new covenant baptism, as in Acts 2:38. I teach that new covenant baptism couldn't take place until after the resurrection. Anyway, I was reading recently "Christianity: Its Jewish Roots," and a small comment caught my attention. It was that the term "born of water" was a Jewish expression of that day referring to childbirth. If so, then the next verse that "flesh gives birth to flesh but the Spirit gives birth to spirit" seems more understandable. Could you direct me to where I might research/verify this "born of water" expression and perhaps other similar usage that might be of interest? -- Jack Reese (Nashville)
It sounds to me like the "small comment" entails a big assumption. I have never come across the phrase "born of water" used in this way. If you are studying baptism, you might enjoy Rex Geissler's book, Born of Water, which is available through Great Commission Illustrated. Other books to consider: George Beasley-Murray, Baptism in the New Testament; F. LaGard Smith, Baptism: The Believer's Wedding Ceremony; and Hicks & Taylor, Down in the River to Pray.
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