We no longer see Jesus after the flesh, and also no longer are we to see anyone after the flesh, so what is the big deal of a physical water baptism? When the One who came after John was to baptize us with fire and the Holy Ghost? Seems like the baptism in the water is a type or shadow of the Holy Spirit. Just like the many types or shadows of the Old Covenant.
There is nothing we think, say, or do that will save us except the grace of God. Well, there is a lot more to it than that, but you know what I mean.
I can only speak for myself, but the baptism of water was purely symbolic and felt only ritualistic, and the truth is only Jesus can save. Nothing I can do or wish to do, will cut it. But, I see nothing wrong with being baptized.
John came preaching the kingdom of God, shouting repentence and baptism, but Jesus said whosoever is least in the kingdom of God is greater than John. And where was John's baptism, from men or God? For me, I was baptized in the Holy Spirit, before being baptized in water. For many, that is an enigma, but not for me. We are not in the flesh, but the spirit, the flesh has died, but the spirit lives. Jesus was crucified and died, but He rose and is no longer dead, but alive, so why should we quivel over fleshly rituals. When the truth is, if you do not have His spirit in you, you are none of His.
Johns death was very symbolic, too. He was beheaded, and so must the elect (the 144,000). Speaking of the death of the beast (self). We must die and let God be the great I am. For this ole self must follow Jesus and be crucified, die and rise to the life that is in Him, so He can be all in all.
God bless,
Gary