What does the Bible say about the difference between the saved and the lost?

In Luke 18, the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican shows that the Pharisee, despite his religious activities, was not justified, while the Publican, acknowledging his sin, was justified. This exemplifies that salvation does not depend on works or outward appearances but solely on one's relationship with Christ. The differences we often emphasize, like being religious or moral, pale in comparison to the crucial difference of accepting Christ as Savior. Ultimately, Jesus is the sole determining factor for being saved; without Him, one remains lost.