This represents baptism which also now saves us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the response of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Then Peter said to them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of Adam’s transgression, who is the representative of him who was to come.
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we are Jews or Gentiles, whether we are slaves or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
And these things, brethren, I have in an illustration transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that you might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.
For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conduct in the world, and more abundantly towards you.
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
For Christ has not entered into the sanctuary made with hands, which is a representation of the true one; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy has given us a new birth to a living hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,