What is baptism in a Christian context?

Baptism, as a New Testament ordinance, serves as a significant visual representation of the gospel message. It symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the believer's personal identification with Him. When one undergoes baptism, it illustrates that the individual has spiritually participated in Christ’s death and has been raised to new life—rod of a sinner to a redeemed child of God. The method of immersion further emphasizes this identification, as it denotes being buried with Christ and rising again. This act is essential for believers as it reinforces their commitment to follow Christ and reflects their faith journey.