Baptism is a meaningful practice instituted by Jesus himself, not just a strange church tradition. It serves as a public 'Declaration of Dependence' on Jesus, symbolizing both spiritual cleansing and identification with Christ's death and resurrection. When someone becomes a follower of Jesus through confession of sin and receiving forgiveness, baptism follows as an outward symbol of this inward transformation. How does the public nature of baptism connects new believers to the faith community and demonstrate their commitment to follow Jesus in all aspects of life?