What did Jesus mean when He told Nicodemus he must be born again? In John 3, Nicodemus, a religious leader, came to Jesus at night seeking answers. Jesus told him, “Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Confused, Nicodemus received further explanation in verse 5: “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Being born of water refers to physical birth, but being born of the Spirit means a spiritual rebirth. Jesus referenced the story of Moses lifting the serpent in the wilderness, symbolizing His own crucifixion. By believing in Jesus, one can have eternal life. This profound message of salvation challenges us to trust not in our deeds but in Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross for our spiritual rebirth.