What does it mean that grace is unmerited favor?

Grace, described as unmerited favor, signifies that God's kindness and salvation cannot be earned through human effort or goodness. It is essential for Christians to understand that grace is not simply unmerited; it is favor bestowed upon those who are utterly undeserving. This biblical truth underscores the amazing nature of God's love and grace toward sinners. The sermon illustrates this by demonstrating that God shows mercy to some and not to others based solely on His sovereign choice. Hence, recognizing grace's nature compels believers to live in gratitude and obedience, understanding that their salvation is entirely based on what Christ has accomplished for them on the cross.