Why is believing in Christ essential for salvation?

Belief in Christ is the means by which individuals are united to Him and receive the benefits of His redemptive work. John 6:53-54 states, 'unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.' This metaphor signifies the necessity of personally appropriating Christ's sacrifice through faith. Moreover, Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that it is by grace we have been saved through faith, and this is not from ourselves; it is the gift of God. Therefore, believing in Christ is not merely intellectual assent but a heartfelt trust in His person and work, which is fundamental to experiencing true salvation and renewal.