The difference is that repentance doesn’t lead to salvation, it’s the other way around. Someone who wasn’t saved wouldn’t repent, as nobody seeks after God. Romans 3:10-12

Looking at repentance as a work is condemnable because deciding to turn away from sin is nothing like what the term “works” entails. The Bible says none of our works save us, but God says if we do not repent which is an action, we will perish aka hell. it’s by definition a required action, but a DECISION isn’t a work. Just saying you believe is not enough. “Belief” means trust in something. you don’t “believe” 1+1=2. if u don’t do what your “Lord” tells you to, you don’t believe His authority!