Does Acts 2:38 mean that we are baptized to be saved or because we have been saved?
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.
Acts 2:38
Matthew 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:
Water baptism is a public testimony of a repentant heart whether before salvation or after. It is not essential to salvation or it would be adding a required work; salvation never includes any work on man’s part. One does not believe in or assent to the gospel of our Lord if one does not think himself a sinner in need of salvation which is repentance.
It also must be considered that in Acts 2:38 the Lord is dealing with nation of Israel, the Jews. There is no Gentile Church until the Jews nationally reject the gospel at the preaching of Stephen.
Today we are publically declaring and giving testimony to our repentance and faith in Christ after believing and receiving the Spirit by being baptized.
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