Christian water baptism is a physical act that mimics the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But true baptism occurs inwardly when the believer gives his or her life to Christ and is “baptized” by God's Holy Spirit in a magnificent spiritual resurrection. However, baptism is not a "free pass" to engage in sinful behavior, and Paul emphasizes a continual effort to focus on obedience and righteousness rather than being a slave to sin.