Why is faith important for Christians according to the sermon?

Faith plays a crucial role in the life of a believer as it is not merely intellectual assent but a deep-seated trust in Christ and His promises. The sermon emphasizes that faith is bestowed by God through the work of the Spirit, enabling believers to see their own sinfulness and Christ’s righteousness. This spiritual sight is what leads individuals to respond to God's call for mercy and grace. Without faith, one cannot experience the new birth or truly understand the mysteries of the gospel, which ultimately leads to salvation.