How do we know that following Christ is essential for salvation?

The call to follow Christ is integrally linked to the deeper truths of Scripture regarding salvation. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus commands His disciples to deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow Him, indicating that true discipleship manifests in following His lead. Moreover, John 10:27 emphasizes that Jesus knows His sheep, and they hear His voice and follow Him. This active following illustrates a life transformed by grace, leading believers away from self-reliance towards reliance on Christ’s redemptive work. Thus, genuine faith, evidenced by the act of following Christ, affirms the believer's election and salvation in Him.