How do we know that salvation is by faith and not by works?

The apostle Paul argues fervently in Galatians that salvation cannot be attained through the works of the law but solely through faith in Jesus Christ. In Galatians 3:3-5, he reminds the Galatian believers that having begun in the Spirit, they cannot be perfected by the flesh. This underscores that faith in Christ's finished work is what secures our salvation and ongoing spiritual life. The law reveals our sin and incapacity for righteousness, serving rather to highlight our need for Christ, who fulfilled the law perfectly and provides salvation through belief in Him alone.