In our last note, we introduced the World Bible School course Knowing Jesus. It follows John’s lead in presenting evidences for faith in Christ as the Son of God. Next in WBS’ Master Series is Born of Water and Spirit. It turns the spotlight on a portion of John’s Gospel, namely Jesus’ encounter with Nicodemus (John 3). Knowing Jesus has made Jesus the focus and set the broad context of John. Now, still in John, we turn to the response for which Jesus calls to receive the new birth! This is pivotal since Jesus emphatically states, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). This birth is essential, but what does it mean?
The context makes the answer clear. Lesson titles include, The New Birth is … by Death, by Grace, by Faith, by Repentance, by Water, and by Spirit. Students can see that the answer comes from the text itself and is true to the context, making this course very effective. You can use this course in various ways. You and your student may work through the booklet as a study guide. You may use it to gain ideas about how to talk about a response to the Gospel. You may give the booklet as supplemental reading, reinforcing your own presentation. If you are not likely to see a seeker again, such as when traveling, this booklet may be part of your seed-sowing along the way.