This certainly sounds essential, even to the extent that a man's salvation might be in jeopardy. Thus we are already in the realm of salvation - a primary doctrine. In contrast to the former denominations, the latter groups have a stronger view of the nature of original sin , and deny that the Atonement is universal . Thus, they are primary doctrines, even by Protestant criteria. The same state of affairs is true concerning baptism , where Protestants are split into infant and adult camps.
Regeneration absolutely has a bearing on salvation, and therefore is a primary doctrine.
Thus, there are five distinct competing belief-systems among Protestants with regard to baptism. Through the prayer of the believing church which presents it, . . . I should be ready to admit that in this sense the sacraments of the New Law are efficacious in conferring grace, not only to those who do not, but even to those who do most obstinately present an obstacle. But to be saved, we know very well, is to be delivered from sin, death, and Satan, and to enter Christ's kingdom and live forever with him . . . Faith clings to the water and believes it to be baptism which effects pure salvation and life .