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:
Peter applies Noah's flood to Christian baptism. "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us" (ho kai hymas antitypon nyn sōzei baptisma). Baptism corresponds to flood as antitype to type. The crucial clarification: "not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God" (ou sarkos apothesis rhypou alla syneidēseōs agathēs eperōtēma eis theon). Baptism doesn't save through water washing physical dirt but through appeal/pledge of good conscience to God. It's outward sign of inward reality—faith, repentance, commitment to Christ. The means: "by the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (di' anastaseōs Iēsou Christou). Christ's resurrection saves; baptism testifies to identification with Christ's death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4).
Historical Context
This verse sparked controversy regarding baptismal regeneration. Peter explicitly denies water itself saves ("not putting away filth"). Baptism saves as sign/seal of faith's reality, not magical ritual. As flood waters saved Noah's family (carrying ark to safety), baptism signifies believer's salvation through identification with Christ's death/resurrection. Reformed theology sees baptism as covenant sign (like circumcision in Old Testament) pointing to spiritual reality, not causing it. Early church practiced baptism as initiation rite signifying conversion, repentance, faith. The 'good conscience pledge' indicates baptism is conscious commitment to Christ, implying believer's baptism or at least conscious covenant renewal.
Questions for Reflection
How is baptism a 'pledge of good conscience toward God' rather than magical ritual that automatically saves?
What does baptism signify about your identification with Christ's death and resurrection?
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Analysis & Commentary
Peter applies Noah's flood to Christian baptism. "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us" (ho kai hymas antitypon nyn sōzei baptisma). Baptism corresponds to flood as antitype to type. The crucial clarification: "not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God" (ou sarkos apothesis rhypou alla syneidēseōs agathēs eperōtēma eis theon). Baptism doesn't save through water washing physical dirt but through appeal/pledge of good conscience to God. It's outward sign of inward reality—faith, repentance, commitment to Christ. The means: "by the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (di' anastaseōs Iēsou Christou). Christ's resurrection saves; baptism testifies to identification with Christ's death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4).