1 Peter 3:21
1 Peter 3:21
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In 1 Peter 3:21, Peter describes baptism as an act that "now saves us." He clarifies that it is not the physical act of cleansing the body that saves, but rather the inward spiritual significance of baptism—the "answer of a good conscience toward God." Baptism is a public declaration of faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through baptism, the believer identifies with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, and in doing so, experiences the inner cleansing that only Jesus can provide. The physical water represents the washing away of sin, but the real power of baptism comes from the resurrection of Jesus. It is the resurrection of Christ that guarantees believers’ salvation, for through His victory over death, we, too, are given new life. Baptism, then, is an outward sign of an inward reality—it is the answer of a good conscience, a testimony to the world that we have been redeemed by the blood of Christ and have a clean conscience before God. It is through this act of faith that we publicly acknowledge God's grace and commit to following Jesus.
1 Corinthians 6:11
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Acts 2:38
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Ephesians 4:5
One Lord, one faith, one baptism.
1 Corinthians 12:13
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.