Well, thats certainly your opinion that baptism is a "public demonstration of faith", even though it is not explained at all that way in the bible. That explanation of baptism is not in the bible at all. Not even in the book of Acts, is this "prayer " used. People that were being saved were baptized, and there it is, in the book of Acts. The early church was baptizing and using it as a necessity of salvation. Hear, repent, believe, repent and be baptized. These were the words used in the bible that were followed by the words, " and you will be saved". I just believe that they are all a necessity of recieving biblical salvation. I do not wish to argue this with anyone, only I find it important to state what the bible simply states itself. It is a fact and we shouldnt argue with it. I dont wish to discuss this any further, because I know that the subject of baptism ruffles the feathers of some. I will respect your opinion, but I respect the bible more. My intention isnt to argue, so I will drop the subject now.