Why is believing in Christ's atonement important for salvation?

Christ's atonement is central to salvation because it fulfills the requirements for justice and mercy. Romans 5:8 states that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us, illustrating that His sacrifice is the basis for our redemption. Ephesians 1:7 further explains that in Him we have redemption through His blood, emphasizing that forgiveness of sins comes through His atoning work. Without this belief in Christ's sacrificial death, we cannot be saved, as it is His righteousness that accounts for us before God.