How do we know that salvation is entirely by grace?

We understand that salvation is entirely by grace through the clear teachings found in Scripture, notably in passages like Ephesians 1, Romans 8, and 2 Timothy 1. These verses reveal that our salvation is grounded in God's sovereign will and His electing grace. God chose His people before the foundation of the world independent of any foreseen merit on their part. This grace is not contingent upon human action but rather is a divine gift given freely through the work of Christ who fulfilled all the requirements of the law through His obedience and sacrificial death.

Furthermore, Romans 3:20-24 clarifies that no one can be justified by their works; rather, we are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Therefore, the assurance of our salvation rests not on our decisions or feelings, but solely on the finished work of Jesus Christ, who is our only hope and righteousness. This underscores the amazing nature of God’s grace — it is unearned and given to unworthy sinners who can manifest true faith only by the regeneration of the Holy Spirit.