[SoothingDave]

I don't see the Bible say anywhere that in order to be saved, you must have water poured over your head and certain ceremonial words stated.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

Jesus sent His Apostles out with the charge to Baptise the nations. This wasn't on a lark.

SD

[dinoparty]

How did the words "born of water and the spirit" become "water shall be poured over your head by a clergyman while a certain ceremony is performed"?

I know that Jesus sent them out on the great commission to "baptize," but this still doesn't answer the question of exactly what constitutes baptism (i.e. what actions are humans supposed to take).