We might not be disagreeing as much as we may have originally desired. (LOL)
Hebrews 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Yes, baptism is important, and confession demonstrates an acknowledgement of our failings and our selfish choices, and our regret for them. But what does it mean to live by faith?
Faith is walking up the mountain with your child in your arms, not seeing the ram on the other side that matches you step for step. Faith is building an ark, over a period of decades, publicly, in a world where no rain has fallen before. Faith is, though broken and beaten and enslaved by the world, recognizing that heavenly light when it shines, and risking it all for it.
The outward trappings of religion are nothing in comparison to the inward demonstrations of responding to the unseen.
Romans 5
1: Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
2: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
3: And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
4: And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
6: For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
7: For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
8: But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
I agree that faith is essential. It is the what leads us to do as the Lord has commanded, which leads to our salvation. Baptism is also essential.
Acts 2:38
Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Mark 16:16
"He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.
Acts 22:16
'And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.'