How do we know that eternal life is a gift from God?

The concept of eternal life as a gift from God is established through the clear contrast in Romans 6:23, where the 'gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.' The passage indicates that while sin accrues wages, leading to death, God offers eternal life not as a result of our efforts or merits but as an unearned favor. This gift is rooted in the redemptive work of Christ, affirming that salvation and eternal life are graciously given to those who believe. The total inability of humankind to attain this gift through their actions underscores the essence of God's sovereignty in salvation.