Interpreting 'save yourselves' in Acts 2:40

This episode answers the major questions surrounding baptism. Considering Acts 2, Emma Dotter and her guest, Tyler Moffett, bring clarity to doctrinal issues such as, “Do I need to get baptized?” and “Is baptism necessary for salvation?” This discussion doesn’t stop there but calls maturing believers to their next step of obedience regarding baptism. Then, to wrap up we examine Peter’s statement in Acts 2:40, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” Is salvation up to you? Can you really save yourself? Listen to dig into this interpretive challenge.  

ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED:  

Matthew 28:19-20 

Galatians 2:20  

Colossians 1:13-14 

Ephesians 2:8-9 – Salvation not by works 

Titus 3:5 – Salvation not by works  

Deuteronomy 32:5 

Matthew 17:17 

Philippians 2:14-15 

RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  

Read Watermark’s doctrinal statement on Baptism: https://www.watermark.org/about/full-doctrinal-statement  

GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-baptism.html  

How to get baptized at Watermark Community Church: https://www.watermark.org/baptism  

Explore the sermon series from Watermark Community Church about what it means to be a Spirit-led church: https://www.watermark.org/series/1471  

RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  

- Overview of the book of Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000579810400  

- What if my possession of the Spirit feels mundane? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000580618106  

WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY?  

Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps us enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey (JTJ) is Watermark Community Church’s Bible-reading plan that invites you to read the Bible with us every day. You can jump in with us at any time, and we’d love for you to invite your friends, family, kids, and community group to Join The Journey too. 

In 2026, we’re studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week’s passage. Then, for the next six days, we’ll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we’ll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God’s Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. 

Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://www.jointhejourney.com  

Daily Bible lessons for parents and children: https://www.jointhejourney.com/jr/7957-what-is-real 

Weekly Bible podcast for children: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898  

Explore previous year’s Join The Journey print resources: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1766444722&sr=1-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=76f04356-3b4c-4524-b15f-6bd00f35bb05  

Contact the Join The Journey Team: JoinTheJourney@watermark.org