The Bible commands us to be baptized, but what does the water actually do? Does it save us, like 1 Peter 3:21 21 which also after a true likeness doth now save you, `even' baptism, not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the interrogation of a good conscience toward God, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ; appears to say? We have forty questions in the inbox about Acts 2:38 38 And Peter `said' unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. . There in the text, a bunch of seekers have gathered. And Peter says to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” ( Acts 2:38 38 And Peter `said' unto them, Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ). Indeed, three thousand people repent and are baptized. It’s an amazing sight! The text also appears to put water baptism prior to conversion or in the moment of conversion. Likewise, Paul was told to “rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name” ( Acts 22:16 16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on his name. ). Dozens of listeners have written in to basically ask, “Are we saved after water baptism, before water baptism, or in water baptism?” Read or listen to this interview at our website: https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/is-baptism-necessary-for-salvation Find other recent and popular Ask Pastor John episodes: https://www.desiringgod.org/ask-pastor-john