In Acts Peter had just publicly preached about Christ for the first time after denying Christ three times. The audience was deeply convicted by what Peter had to say. He commanded them to repent, or turn away from their sins and turn to God instead. In order to be forgiven of their sins they were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit came upon them. About 3,000 people became new believers when Peter preached the good news, which is incredible. The importance of baptism cannot be stressed enough. Being baptized is a public proclamation of our love for Jesus Christ. It is turning away from our selfish ways and becoming new in him so we can depend on his forgiveness, mercy, guidance, and purpose.  We can't save ourselves - only God can save us. Through accepting Jesus Christ and being baptized, we can accept the gift of eternal life, which Jesus gave to us when he died on the cross. He loves each of us so much that he was willing to die a painful death so we could live instead. What an incredibly special gift.