Why is the doctrine of justification by faith alone important?

The doctrine of justification by faith alone is central to the Reformed understanding of salvation. It teaches that sinners are declared righteous before God solely on the basis of faith in Christ, as evidenced in Romans 5:1, which states that we are justified by faith and have peace with God. This doctrine is crucial because it underscores that salvation is not based on human effort or merit, but solely on Jesus' perfect obedience and sacrificial death. It places the glory of salvation firmly in the hands of God, protecting against any notion that human works could contribute to one's acceptance before Him. As such, it liberates believers from the burden of trying to earn salvation, encouraging them to trust fully in the finished work of Christ.