Why is it important to acknowledge Jesus as Lord?

Acknowledging Jesus as Lord is central to Christian faith, encapsulated in Romans 10:9, which states that confessing Jesus as Lord is tied directly to salvation. This recognition emphasizes His complete sovereignty over all creation, including individual lives. Understanding Jesus as Lord contrasts with a mere acknowledgment of His role; it involves submitting to His will and authority, aligning with the belief that He actively governs every aspect of our lives and salvation. When believers confess that He is Lord, they embrace the truth that they cannot achieve righteousness on their own and must wholly depend on Him for their salvation, highlighting His grace and mercy in the process.