Romans 6:5

For if we have become united with him in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection;

'United' -to grow together (Robertson p. 362); an intimate and progressive union (Vincent p. 67) 4854. sumphutos soom'-foo-tos; from 4862 and. derivative of 5453; grown along with (connate), i.e. (figuratively) closely united to: -planted together.

'Likeness of his death' -He died to atone for sins, we died to the practice of sin. Hence the illogic of saying that the gospel messages encourages sin.

'Likeness of his resurrection' -this verse proves the legitimacy of the reference to. new life in the preceding one. 'Union with Christ at one point (his death) is union with him altogether and therefore his resurrection.'

Clearly, baptism is essential. For one cannot enter 'newness' of life, without being first baptized! All those claiming that baptism is not necessary to salvation, find themselves in the ridiculous position of claiming that one can become spiritually alive before dying to sin.