How does the church affirm salvation through grace?

The early church, as recorded in Acts 15, emphasizes that salvation is a result not of human merit but purely by the grace of God. In response to false teachings suggesting that adherence to the law was necessary for salvation, the apostles clarify that no commandment was given to impose such burdens on believers (Acts 15:24). They affirm that salvation is rooted in grace alone, a truth that undergirds the entirety of the Gospel message. The collective agreement of the apostles and elders illustrates the necessity of preserving this doctrine to prevent subversion of the Gospel, which centers on Christ's redemptive work rather than human efforts. Spreading this message of grace is crucial for the growth and unity of the church, encouraging believers to find their peace and assurance in Christ alone.