Podcasts about water baptism

Why does water baptism carry such deep meaning for believers around the world, often far more than in Western churches?In this episode of The Unshakable Church, Ron explores the powerful spiritual significance of water and baptism through a global lens. Drawing from firsthand experience among national church planters, he explains how new believers from Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim backgrounds understand water as a symbol of cleansing, rebirth, and devotion.Ron then unpacks five profound biblical truths that water baptism represents for believers today: spiritual rebirth, cleansing from sin, the work of the Holy Spirit, eternal life, and God's provision. These realities help explain why baptism is not just a ceremony, but a bold declaration of transformation and allegiance to Christ.Discover why this sacred act carries such urgency, joy, and meaning in places where revival is spreading rapidly across the world.

Why Water Baptism

Freedom Livestream - February 22, 2026SERIES: Learn/UnlearnTITLE: About StrengthSPEAKER: Erin JamiesonYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMISSIONS: freedomkw.com/missions SERVE: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook (Ep. 300), I walk through the sweeping biblical story of the Holy Spirit, from Genesis to Pentecost and beyond. We look at the Spirit who brooded over creation, empowered prophets and kings, and was promised in Joel, revealed by Jesus, and poured out in Acts. This is not a new doctrine or a modern movement, but the living Spirit of God at work across all Scripture. From Joel 2, John 20, and Acts 2, we trace the Spirit's person and power through the Word of God. I also challenge every believer to understand that life in the Spirit is not optional equipment for a few, but essential for the whole Church. The same Holy Spirit who filled the upper room still fills and empowers believers today. When He moves, our calling is simple: receive. Leaders especially must live and serve in the strength only the Spirit provides. – Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:25) - A Biblical Concept of the Holy Spirit(00:02:59) - John's Gospel, The Holy Spirit(00:12:44) - When Messiah comes, the Holy Spirit will pour out on all flesh(00:19:59) - Prophecies of the Jews(00:22:37) - The Feast of Pentecost(00:26:49) - Receive the Holy Spirit(00:36:37) - The Crucified Peter and the(00:42:58) - Receiving the Holy Spirit(00:49:27) - Receive the Holy Spirit in Water Baptism(00:56:31) - Mark Rutland on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

Water baptism has been practiced by followers of Jesus from the very beginning, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood steps of faith in the church today. In this message, we take a clear and biblical look at what water baptism is, where it came from, how it took shape in the New Testament, and why it still matters for us today. Rather than approaching baptism as a tradition, a ritual, or a religious requirement, we will see it as a meaningful response to the gospel—an act of obedience that publicly identifies us with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This teaching is meant to bring clarity, remove confusion, and invite every believer to take their next faithful step in following Jesus. Speaker: Pastor Ben Dixon Series: The Practices of The Faith Thank you for Joining. For more information visit www.BenDixon.org or fill out a Northwest Church Connect Card - https://nwc.churchcenter.com/people/forms/118663

Freedom Livestream - February 15, 2026SERIES: Learn/UnlearnTITLE: About GriefSPEAKER: Tracy DunhamYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMISSIONS: freedomkw.com/missions SERVE: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

This excerpt was taken from our LIVE services on Sunday mornings at Belmont Assembly of God - Chicago. Thanks for tuning in! If you're new to Belmont Assembly, check out the links below! www.belmontag.org/connect www.belmontag.org/donate Check out our Compass Kids online!  www.compasskids.us #belmontag #bagcompasskids #findingdirection

Today we'll discuss some of the beginning stories of David's life, and how his faith in God determined everything for him. Then we'll celebrate with a water baptism.

Freedom Livestream - February 8, 2026SERIES: Learn/UnlearnTITLE: About PovertySPEAKER: Tracy DunhamYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMISSIONS: freedomkw.com/missions SERVE: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Freedom Livestream - February 1, 2026SERIES: He Leads MeTITLE: Jehovah Shalom (The Lord is Peace)SPEAKER: Tracy DunhamYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMISSIONS: freedomkw.com/missions SERVE: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Thank you for joining us for Baptism Sunday today as we baptize six individuals who are making a public declaration of faith in Jesus! 

Freedom Livestream - January 25, 2026SERIES: He Leads MeTITLE: Jehovah Nissi (The Lord is Our Banner)SPEAKER: Tracy DunhamYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Freedom Livestream - January 18, 2026SERIES: He Leads MeTITLE: Jehovah Shaamah (The Lord is There)SPEAKER: Scott CorkillYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

This sermon presents water baptism as a foundational Basic Christian Value, emphasizing that it is not a ritual that saves, but an essential act of obedience, identification, and discipleship for every believer. Rooted in the Great Commission, baptism is shown to be a biblical ordinance commanded by Jesus, practiced immediately after conversion in the early church, and symbolizing a believer's union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. The message addresses common reasons people avoid baptism—lack of understanding, pride, indifference, defiance, or lack of genuine faith—and clarifies that while baptism does not produce salvation, it marks the beginning of a transformed, obedient life under Christ's lordship. Drawing from Scripture, Jewish tradition, and personal testimony, the sermon calls believers to take this step seriously, noting that obedience invites God's pleasure and blessing. Ultimately, water baptism is presented as a public declaration of faith, a visible gospel witness, and a crucial step in growing up spiritually and fully surrendering to Christ.

What does it truly mean to be born again?In this episode, we walk straight through Scripture to examine Jesus' words to Nicodemus and the consistent New Testament pattern of water and Spirit. From the teachings of Christ, to the preaching of the apostles, to real conversion accounts in Acts, the Bible presents a clear, unified message.We cover:Jesus' definition of being “born again” (John 3)The connection between salvation and water in both the Old and New TestamentsWhy baptism is more than symbolicThe order of belief, baptism, and receiving the Holy Ghost in ActsWhat it means to be baptized into ChristWhy the apostles consistently baptized in the name of JesusHow baptism unites us with Christ's death, burial, and resurrectionThis is not about tradition or denominational teaching—it's about letting the Bible interpret itself.Scriptures discussed include:John 3:3–51 Peter 3:20–21Acts 8, 10, 19, 22Romans 6:3–4Galatians 3:27Matthew 3:16

This sermon presents water baptism as a foundational Basic Christian Value, emphasizing that it is not a ritual that saves, but an essential act of obedience, identification, and discipleship for every believer. Rooted in the Great Commission, baptism is shown to be a biblical ordinance commanded by Jesus, practiced immediately after conversion in the early church, and symbolizing a believer's union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. The message addresses common reasons people avoid baptism—lack of understanding, pride, indifference, defiance, or lack of genuine faith—and clarifies that while baptism does not produce salvation, it marks the beginning of a transformed, obedient life under Christ's lordship. Drawing from Scripture, Jewish tradition, and personal testimony, the sermon calls believers to take this step seriously, noting that obedience invites God's pleasure and blessing. Ultimately, water baptism is presented as a public declaration of faith, a visible gospel witness, and a crucial step in growing up spiritually and fully surrendering to Christ.

Freedom Livestream - January 11, 2026SERIES: He Leads MeTITLE: Jehovah Rapha (The Lord Who Heals)SPEAKER: Tracy DunhamYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Jesus was baptized to show us the path to holiness and call all of His disciples to "take the "plunge" of commitment to follow Him.   (Come to the River - Bob Hurd) The homilies of Msgr. Stephen J. AvilaPastor, St. Joseph, Guardian of the Holy Family Parish, Falmouth, MAThanks for listening! May God's Word find a home in you.

Freedom Livestream - January 4, 2026SERIES: He Leads MeTITLE: Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Will Provide)SPEAKER: Tracy DunhamYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

What does the Bible actually teach about water baptism—and why does it matter for believers today? In this sermon, we walk through key New Testament passages to understand baptism's role in salvation, obedience, and new life in Christ.Drawing from Colossians 2:12, Matthew 28:19–20, Mark 16:16, and multiple accounts in Acts, this message explores how baptism is connected to faith, repentance, and the public confession of Jesus Christ. From the Great Commission to the early church's response to the gospel, Scripture consistently points to baptism as an essential step of obedience for believers.Whether you're seeking clarity on baptism, preparing to be baptized, or wanting a deeper biblical foundation, this sermon aims to encourage, challenge, and strengthen your faith.

Freedom Livestream - December 28, 2025SERIES: Before BethlehemTITLE: SanctuarySPEAKER: Erin JamiesonYouTube PlaylistFOLLOWING JESUS: freedomkw.com/life NEW TO FREEDOM? freedomkw.com/im-new GIVE: freedomkw.com/give WATER BAPTISM: freedomkw.com/baptismCARE CLOSET: freedomkw.com/careclosetGROUPS: freedomkw.com/groups ALPHA: freedomkw.com/alphaMissions: freedomkw.com/missions Serve: freedomkw.com/team-member-opportunities Facebook Groups: Connecting Point & Freedom Kids

Who is authorized to perform Christian baptisms? While the New Testament clearly emphasizes baptism in Jesus' name for salvation, it does not directly state which members of the church are qualified to perform them. In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard offers both biblical and practical guidance on this question.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Baptism isn't just a ceremony—it's a declaration. In this powerful baptism Sunday message, Pastor Ryan reveals the five essential truths about water baptism and reminds us that real faith was never a faith that just believed—it was a faith that followed. From Jesus's final instructions to His disciples to the thief on the cross, this teaching will challenge you to understand that obedience isn't a burden, it's our worship. Whether you're considering baptism, already been baptized, or wrestling with what obedience looks like in your life—this message is packed with biblical truth, honest conviction, and a call to let your private faith become a public declaration. If you love Him, you'll obey His commandments. Scripture Reference: Matthew 28:19, Ephesians 2:8-9, Colossians 2:12, John 14:15 Big Idea: Water baptism doesn't save us—faith in Jesus alone brings salvation. But baptism is our public declaration that we belong to Him now, and obedience is the evidence that our faith is alive. Key Quote: "If I keep my faith private, my faith stops growing. Real faith was never a faith that just believed—it was a faith that followed." ⸻ Topics in this Message: Five biblical truths about water baptism Why water baptism is important (Jesus's final command) Water baptism doesn't save us—faith in Jesus alone does Baptism as a public declaration of new association What baptism symbolizes: dying to self, raised to new life Baptism as an act of obedience Why private faith stops growing The cost of obedience vs. the reward of God's presence +++++++ Join us for church this Sunday. For service times and meeting location please visit https://transformtlh.com/

Pastor Chas Stevenson

9/28/25 - What's the Deal with Water Baptism? - Jordan Rice by Zion Christian Fellowship

With Pastor Marques DunhamVisit cotr.com for more resources and sermons from GTCOTR.

Welcome to the Word of Life AG podcast! Today Pastor Tom Wood helps us take a look at a significant step in the life of a Christian. But first… If you're looking for next steps, please head to our website at https://www.wordoflifeag.org/

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 10/09/2025) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: A Caller Inquires About CARM's Three Online Study Courses/Matt Briefly Discusses One of his Novels/ Matt Discusses some Doctrines Found in Reformed Theology/Election/Predestination??????/ Chat Questions Answered—Prophets and Apostles/What is an Argument against Sola Scriptura?/Matt Discusses some of the Teachings of the RCC and the EO/What is the Purpose of Water Baptism?/ October 9, 2025

While strange to outsiders, water baptism has always been central to following Jesus. From ancient Jewish rituals to Jesus' own baptism, we see how this practice isn't just symbolic but a powerful step of obedience that transforms lives. Discover how baptism gives you a new identity, washes away the past, and welcomes you into God's family.

There's nothing like gathering together at BFWC on the weekend!Come ready for powerful worship, a life-giving Word, and a time of celebration as we witness lives being changed through Water Baptism.If you're ready to take that next step in your walk with Christ, don't wait—this is your moment! Register today: https://www.bfwc.net/water-baptism

[Romans 6:1-4] Water baptism, "immersion," is fundamental to Christianity because it represents the entry point so that we will understand what salvation is from the beginning; saving faith (justification) and personal holiness (sanctification) are required for salvation. Paul is using baptism as an illustration of the true gospel - don't you "know" what baptism teaches?

Are you ready to experience new life in Christ?

Good morning! Join us as Pastor Josh speaks about the powerful symbolism and biblical significance of water baptism. What does it mean? Why do Christians do it? And how does it connect to Jesus, the Bible, and even Israel's story of deliverance? Tune in to explore these questions and discover how baptism represents our new life in Christ. In this message, Pastor Josh breaks down key scriptures like Matthew 3:14-16 and Acts 2:36-38, showing how baptism is more than just a ritual—it's a declaration of faith, a representation of Christ's death and resurrection, and a step toward spiritual renewal. From the Red Sea to the early church, we uncover how God uses baptism as a symbol of freedom, salvation, and transformation. Whether you've been baptized before or are considering it now, this video will inspire and equip you with biblical insights. Ready to take the next step in your faith? Wherever you are in your spiritual journey, we invite you to join us and learn more about what it means to follow Jesus. Please tune in, subscribe, and share this message with others. Let's grow together in faith and understanding. See you in the comments! #jesuschrist #jesus #bible #faith #water #jesuschrist #infantbaptism #jesus #biblestudy #thetruthaboutbaptism CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Baptism 00:14 - Baptism in the Bible 01:36 - Purpose of Baptism 04:08 - Symbolism of Leaving Sin 06:57 - Jesus' Death and Resurrection Symbol 12:28 - Baptism as an Answer to God 13:55 - Power of the Gospel in Baptism 14:32 - Association with Jesus through Baptism 16:03 - Importance of Baptism 21:04 - Baptism of the Holy Spirit 23:31 - Water Baptisms 27:09 - Altar Call

 In this episode of Brothers Just Searching, we dive deep into 1 Peter 3:18–22 and unpack several important theological topics. We begin by looking at how Christ's sacrifice was once and for all—contrasting this with the teachings of certain religions that portray Jesus as dying repeatedly through ritual acts.We also explore the debated passage about “spirits in prison,” addressing the popular theory that fallen angels had relations with women to produce nephilim and giants. While some hold to that view, we share why we don't believe that interpretation, and instead affirm that Christ proclaimed victory to those who looked forward to Him as the promised Messiah.Finally, we discuss the subject of water baptism. Is baptism essential for salvation? We explain why Scripture teaches salvation is by faith in Christ alone, and how requiring baptism for salvation is, in effect, adding to the finished work of Christ.Join us as we examine this rich passage and point to the hope, victory, and sufficiency of Jesus Christ.FNT Encourage Conferencehttps://fntchurch.org/?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwMI1mpleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHnrOKsJFBYZJzp-yY6JMAaQFLpm4PErP0dsGNUo_NhUaMiJa6FwZCXC3CTXm_aem_A8uc1aaDo6CPgoFC3ZfQAADon't forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow us on Facebook also leave us a review If You Like To donate to this podcast you can through cashapp or email us at brothersjustsearchingpodcast@gmail.com for more infoAnything is appreciated Cashapp infoBJSmediaThis podcast is brought to you by BJS MEDIA. A christian media production from the swamps of Louisiana. Teaching THE WORD OF GOD (The Bible) and discussing religion, cults, and other world events. Brothers Just Searching Links Check out our website https://brothersjustsearching.wordpress.com/Check out Our Facebook Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/bjspodcastCheck out our YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/channel/UCSKi3Aywyd1PQWQ5K1rrIUAhttps://campsite.to/bjsmediaThis is where you can listen to our podcast “Brothers Just Searching”. Below me :). Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brothers-just-searching/id1490823255?uo=4Google Podcast https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8xMDk2MjdhMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0xxj0itGZrlN6EvUpHnel1Breakerhttps://www.breaker.audio/brothers-just-searchingOvercasthttps://overcast.fm/itunes1490823255/brothers-just-searchingPocket Casts https://pca.st/7uduo3tzRadio Public https://radiopublic.com/brothers-just-searching-G7PLoENew Beginning Fellowship Church New Beginning FChttps://www.facebook.com/NewBeginningFellowshipChurchTB/Coteau Holmes Fellowship Church https://www.facebook.com/coteauholmesfellowship/Music Provided ByUltima Thule by a href="https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/51198"Blue Dot Sessions/a- [ ]#bible #biblestudy #faith #jesus #god

Audio is taken from the original live recording - https://youtu.be/cMGYm4g1zSMFor centuries, Christians have debated the question: is water baptism required for salvation? Some traditions hold it as essential, while others see it as an outward sign of an inward faith. This topic is consequential because it touches on the heart of the gospel, specifically, how a person is made right with God. Because of its importance, we must carefully seek understanding, not from tradition or denominational opinion, but from the Word of God itself.1 - Why do some churches and denominations teach that water baptism is required for salvation?2 - Which churches and denominations teach water baptism is required for salvation?3 - Does the Bible teach water baptism is required for salvation?Key Scriptures for today's teaching: 1 John 5:1-13Unless otherwise noted, most Scripture will be from the NLT, the New Living TranslationIf you prayed with Tiff, click here https://lostlamb.org/ and let him know! Be sure to watch the curated playlist “New Beginnings” - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsX8E19Azl58_FjxELPxjnsL8CAtmama4&si=Pj84Hm2dGX57OH4Z Thank you for watching, and subscribe for new content each week.Connect with Tiff Shuttlesworth Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LostLambAssociation/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TIFFSHUTTLESWORTH/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/tiffshuttlesworLearn more about my ministry: https://lostlamb.org/ Learn more about my ministry in Canada: https://www.lostlamb.ca

Welcome to the audio podcast of Valley Family Church located in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We pray you'll be encouraged as you listen to this podcast. For more information on Valley Family Church, visit valleyfamilychurch.org.

What is the true meaning of water baptism? In this special service, Pastor Jay Genin unpacks the biblical foundation of baptism and its powerful significance for every believer. Baptism isn't just a ritual—it's a public declaration of faith, a step of obedience, and a celebration of new life in Jesus Christ. This message highlights why baptism matters, how it symbolizes being buried with Christ and raised to new life, and what it means to walk in the freedom and identity we now have as children of God. You'll also hear testimonies and see the joy of lives transformed by the love of Jesus. If you're looking for a Spirit-filled, Jesus-centered church in Madison, WI, where you can grow in faith, find community, and encounter God's presence, we invite you to join us at Chapel Valley Church. Questions this sermon answers: 1. What is the biblical meaning and significance of water baptism? 2. How does baptism represent both death to sin and new life in Christ? 3. Why is baptism an essential step of obedience for every follower of Jesus?

What is the true meaning of water baptism? In this special service, Pastor Jay Genin unpacks the biblical foundation of baptism and its powerful significance for every believer. Baptism isn't just a ritual—it's a public declaration of faith, a step of obedience, and a celebration of new life in Jesus Christ. This message highlights why baptism matters, how it symbolizes being buried with Christ and raised to new life, and what it means to walk in the freedom and identity we now have as children of God. You'll also hear testimonies and see the joy of lives transformed by the love of Jesus. If you're looking for a Spirit-filled, Jesus-centered church in Madison, WI, where you can grow in faith, find community, and encounter God's presence, we invite you to join us at Chapel Valley Church. Questions this sermon answers: 1. What is the biblical meaning and significance of water baptism? 2. How does baptism represent both death to sin and new life in Christ? 3. Why is baptism an essential step of obedience for every follower of Jesus?

What is baptism really all about? Water baptism is a way of going public with your faith—an outward sign of the inner change Jesus has made in your life. When you're baptized, you're saying, “I belong to Him.” It doesn't save you, but it boldly shows you're all in—living a new life in Christ and identifying with His death, burial, and resurrection.

What is baptism really all about? Water baptism is a way of going public with your faith—an outward sign of the inner change Jesus has made in your life. When you're baptized, you're saying, “I belong to Him.” It doesn't save you, but it boldly shows you're all in—living a new life in Christ and identifying with His death, burial, and resurrection.