How do we know that salvation is a free gift?

Salvation as a free gift is rooted in the character of God, who saves sinners not based on their merits but purely by His grace. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works, so that no one can boast. This affirms that salvation is entirely God's initiative. The act of preaching the gospel reflects this grace; as Christ's messengers, we are to offer the gospel freely, representing the unearned favor that God extends to His chosen people. Delivering this message without payment reinforces the truth of grace over merit.