Twisted Scripture Acts 2:38-39

Many groups use these verses to teach that baptism is essential to salvation. Yet Paul made a distinction between the two when he wrote, “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel” (1Co 1:17). He then described the gospel as “the word of the cross,” which is “the power of God” to save (1:18). Baptism and the gospel are thus set in opposition to each other. Paul explained that “the gospel . . . is God’s power for salvation” (Rm 1:16).