Why is it important for Christians to recognize their union with Christ?

The union of believers with Christ is foundational to both our justification and sanctification. Paul notes in Romans 6 that through baptism into Christ, believers symbolize their death to sin and being raised to new life. This mystic union is a mystery and illustrates that as Christ is our representative head, his actions directly impact us. Understanding this helps believers navigate their Christian walk, relying on Christ's strength and acknowledging that they are no longer slaves to sin but members of His body, called to live righteously.