How do we know repentance is essential for salvation?

Repentance is characterized by a change of heart, recognizing one's rebellion against God's law and turning towards Him for forgiveness. As stated in Job 33:27, 'If any say, I have sinned and perverted that which was right,' true repentance involves admitting one's lost condition. Furthermore, 2 Corinthians 7:10 highlights that godly sorrow leads to repentance that results in salvation. This indicates that genuine repentance not only results in acknowledgment of sin but also in a transformation directed toward Christ, who is the source of our reconciliation with God. Thus, repentance is not merely a prerequisite but rather a vital component of the believer's response to the grace exhibited in the gospel.