do we believe Paul or Ray or Mike or Jesus?
this is what Jesus said to Nicodemus (talking about being "born-again"):
John 3:5
"I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit."
could it be more simple?
Worm, it actually isn't quite that simple, when Jesus spoke these words He hadn't been crucified and resurrected, there was a transition period during His Ministry. After His death on the cross the New Covenent was implemented, even then the apostles were not immediately transformed or fully understood the implications, that began after Pentecost. Remember the debate among them about circumcism?
"There is ONE body, and ONE Spirit, even as ye are called in ONE hope of your calling; ONE Lord, ONE faith, ONE BAPTISM, ONE God and Father of all, Who is above all, and through all, and in you all" (Eph. 4:4-6)
1Co 1:14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;
1Co 1:15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.
1Co 1:16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other.
1Co 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
One baptism in Spirit.
Physical rituals died on the cross.
Joe