How do we know salvation is not based on works?

Both the Old and New Testaments emphasize that salvation is by grace alone and not by human efforts or works. Ephesians 2:8-9 articulates that it is by grace we are saved, through faith, and this is not from ourselves; it is the gift of God—so that no one can boast. The idea that anything we do could contribute to our salvation directly opposes the message of the gospel, which insists that Christ’s atonement is sufficient. Paul warns against false teachings that impose works as a requirement for salvation, stating that such beliefs render grace ineffective. True salvation leads to a life characterized by gratitude and obedience born from faith, not from obligation.