In the Apostle Peter's first epistle we read,

Baptism, which is a figure (of Noah and his family's deliverance), does now also save you (from inward questionings and fears), not by the removing of outward body filth (bathing), but by (providing you with) the answer of a good and clear conscience (inward cleansing and peace) before God (because you are demonstrating what you believe to be yours) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.Baptism, which is a figure (of Noah and his family's deliverance), does now also save you (from inward questionings and fears), not by the removing of outward body filth (bathing), but by (providing you with) the answer of a good and clear conscience (inward cleansing and peace) before God (because you are demonstrating what you believe to be yours) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 3:21 - Amplified Bible

Water baptism saves you - not, this time, salvation of spirit but a salvation of soul saving you from inward questionings and fears. Then, when the inward questionings and fears stop, your good and clear conscience is heard giving an answer.

The voice of the flesh has been insistently telling you, "Nothing has changed!" Now your good and clear conscience will be heard answering, "All things are become new. I'm cleansed. I'm purified. There's no blemish or spot on me. The blood of Jesus has lifted away all the sin and all of it's ravages!" (Hebrews 9:14; 10:2.)