Q: Baptism in Acts 2:38 — is it required for salvation? No. Acts 10 (Cornelius) shows people receiving the Holy Spirit BEFORE baptism. The gift of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:38 comes after repentance; baptism is commanded but not essential to receiving salvation. Cornelius was saved, Spirit-filled, and speaking in tongues before water baptism.

Acts 2:38: repent, be baptized, receive the Holy Spirit. Acts 10:44-48: Cornelius and household received the Holy Spirit while Peter was still speaking — before any baptism. Peter then commanded baptism. The gift of the Holy Spirit = salvation. Cornelius proves baptism is commanded but not a prerequisite for receiving the Spirit. Baptism is important obedience, not a salvation requirement.