The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (1 Peter 3:21-22)
Water baptism isn't just about getting physically clean. It's about something much deeper; that is identification. When we go down into the water, we identify with Christ in His death. In baptism, Christians profess by illustration that they are dying to their old selves. We die to being led by our flesh and rebelling against God’s ways. We go under the water as a picture of the death of our past sinful life, but we don’t stay under the water.
When we come out of the water, we identify with Christ in His resurrection. We're declaring that just as Christ rose from the grave, we have also been raised to a new life, a life full of power and authority over every power of the enemy.
1 Peter 3:21-22 is often misunderstood. Water baptism alone does not save a person; that only happens when a person believes with their heart and confesses with their mouth that Jesus is the risen Lord. However, water baptism identifies us with Christ, Who is now seated at the right hand of God in heaven, with all angels, authorities, and powers subject to Him. What does that mean for us? As believers, we are seated in heavenly places with Christ, far above every principality, power, and dominion, or any name that is named. Because of Jesus, we have power over every force of darkness that tries to come against us.
Practical Application
Declare the name of Jesus. Speak His name and use His authority and stand in the understanding that you identify with Him not only in His death, but in His resurrection power!