"I beseech you for the Lord's sake, do not deceive yourself; never dream that Baptism is the New Birth, or any other external ordinance or operation whatever. Baptism is an outward work performed upon the body, by the arm of flesh, and can no more change your heart, or save your soul, than it can create a world."

"You can neither enter into the spiritual kingdom of Christ, nor be prepared for his heavenly kingdom, except you are born again, and created anew. Hitherto you have loved the world, delighted in your own self, and wallowed in sin. Now you must delight in the Lord, esteem his people, espouse his cause, and love his word and commandments. Your youth has been spent in childish pursuits, your strength has been exhausted in fruitless efforts to obtain happiness, your days have been employed in vanity, and your nights in folly. O that now you would be wise! That you would understand these things, and consider your latter end! The shadow of death is coming over you, the scrutinizing Judge stands at the door, and the gates of hell are unbarred, and open to receive the unrepenting sinner!

I beseech you for the Lord's sake, do not deceive yourself; never dream that Baptism is the New Birth, or any other external ordinance or operation whatever. Baptism is an outward work performed upon the body, by the arm of flesh, and can no more change your heart, or save your soul, than it can create a world. The New Birth is an internal work, accomplished in the soul by the mighty influences of the blessed Spirit, whereby you shall be translated from the kingdom of darkness, into the kingdom of God's dear Son; your soul shall be made humble, patient, heavenly, holy, and happy. Then will Christ be inexpressibly precious to you; his ways will be pleasant, and his paths peace. He will deliver your soul from death, your eyes from tears of dark despair, and your feet from falling into Hell: he will heal all your menial diseases, and crown you with his loving-kindness, and tender mercies.