Why is the concept of original sin important for Christians?

Original sin, stemming from Adam and Eve's fall, is vital to understanding the human condition. It teaches that all of humanity is born with a sinful nature, inherited from our first parents, which separates us from God. This inherent corruption necessitates redemption, as we cannot attain righteousness by our own efforts. The acknowledgment of original sin underscores the necessity of God's grace and the work of Jesus Christ, who came as the last Adam to restore what was lost. Recognizing our state as sinners is the first step toward salvation, as it drives us to rely on God's mercy and the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.