This is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you-- not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
"To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ" (Colossians 1:2). All spiritual blessings are in Christ (the church, Acts 2:47). We are not counted or called saints or brethren until we are in Christ.