Baptism: What does it represent?

Baptism symbolizes a believer's prior spiritual transformation rather than causing it; it publicly declares faith in Jesus Christ, who died for humanity's sins and rose again to grant forgiveness and new life. Rooted in Christ's Great Commission, baptism follows conversion—not as a means of salvation, but as a visible testimony of a person's personal faith in Christ’s atoning death and resurrection. Salvation comes not through good works or rituals, but through God’s mercy, as sinners recognize their failure to glorify God and trust in Christ alone to cover their guilt. Baptism, therefore, is a symbolic reenactment of Christ’s burial and resurrection, representing the believer’s union with Him in death to sin and resurrection to new life. It is not a magical act but a powerful declaration of identity and gratitude, calling both believers and seekers to consider the gospel’s truth: that Christ’s wounds have paid the ransom for sin, and eternal life is found only in Him.