How does salvation relate to mercy in Christianity?

In Reformed theology, salvation is understood as an act of God's mercy, rather than human merit. Ephesians 2:4-5 teaches that 'God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions.' This indicates that mercy is essential to salvation; it acknowledges that we, as sinners, are incapable of saving ourselves. God's choice to save us, demonstrated at the cross, ensures that our relationship with Him is based solely on His grace and mercy, not our works. Consequently, believers rest in the assurance that their salvation is secure and founded upon His enduring mercy.