Baptism - A symbol not a sacrament (part 2)

This is also why Jesus taught the significance of believing in relation to baptism (see Mark 16:16). Ironically, Jesus Himself was baptized (Matt. 3:16). This is yet another proof that baptism does not save. In Matt. 28:19, Jesus specifically instructed His followers to first make disciples (Salvation being the primary requisite) and then baptize them. Again, salvation precedes baptism.

The Apostle Paul was thankful for not baptizing certain believers due to their spiritual immaturity (1 Cor. 1:14). This would be an absurd verse if baptism could save. Notice even in this context the candidates for baptism were already "believers."

Baptism cannot bestow grace on anyone; only God can do this. Grace is God's favor. It is something that He gives and nothing that we can earn in and of ourselves. (see Eph. 2:8).