Why is belief in Christ important for salvation?

Belief in Christ is crucial because it is through faith that we receive the benefits of His sacrificial death and resurrection. The Scriptures clearly state that faith in Jesus is the means by which we behold the salvation of the Lord (John 3:16). It is not our works, but rather our trust in Christ's completed work that justifies us before God. Furthermore, 1 Peter 1:5 reinforces that we are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, emphasizing the necessity of believing in Christ alone for salvation.