Interesting topic. I was raised Baptist and had always been taught that salvation did not include baptism, but was just the outward sign that you had accepted Christ. As I read the scriptures over and over I begin to wonder if that is really the case. Sometimes we just believe what we are taught by the particular denomination or religion we align ourselves with.
You really need to read the Bible yourself. It is amazing how many Pastors probably have never read the whole Bible.
Thank you for your honesty and I hope the scriptures posted will help you evolve a study that will lead you to the truth about baptism