While there is symbolism involved in the sacraments, they are far more than mere symbols since they actually communicate to us the gifts Christ has won for us. Or consider the following three passages about baptism. Notice how they show that baptism also is not a mere symbol, but actually is the Holy Spirit at work through the water and the Word. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Such wonderful promises of gifts from Jesus are made in the sacraments.
Baptism is a sermon about pure grace.
Baptism is about what God does, not what a human does. God is at work in holy baptism. At the command of Christ water is connected with the powerful Name of the Savior God, and that washing with the Word is what the Spirit uses to create faith. Baptism is where I received the blessings of forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life. Yes, indeed, baptism is perhaps the clearest sermon on pure grace that the gracious Lord has given to us.