This is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you-- not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
"And now why tarriest thou? arise and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord" (Acts 22:16). These words were part of the message that Saul of Tarsus was told that he must do (Acts 9:6). Saul believed in God, had seen Jesus Christ, had repented and prayed for days, and yet was in his sins until he was baptized. If Saul had already been forgiven as a result of his faith and repentance, then this command was not only nonsensical but it would have been impossible to obey. Baptism stood between him and the washing away of his sins.