How does grace relate to faith according to scripture?

The relationship between grace and faith is foundational in understanding salvation. Ephesians 2:8 affirms that we are saved by grace through faith, meaning that grace is the initiating and fundamental aspect of salvation, while faith is the response to that grace. Importantly, this faith is not of our own making; it is itself a gift from God, as seen in scripture. Thus, while faith is necessary to receive salvation, it does not contribute to our righteousness or standing before God. Instead, it signifies our acceptance of the grace that has already been provided through Christ's finished work.