Why is believing in Christ necessary for salvation?

Acts 16:31 clearly states, 'Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.' This belief is not merely intellectual assent but involves a deep trust in Christ as Savior. Romans 10:9 elaborates on this, emphasizing the need to confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection for salvation. This act of faith connects believers to Christ's righteousness, as 2 Corinthians 5:21 notes that He became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Thus, faith in Christ is not optional; it is the divinely appointed means to receive salvation.