What does it mean that salvation is a gift from God?
Answered in 2 sources
Salvation as a gift means it is not earned through works but freely given by God's grace through faith in Christ.
Understanding salvation as a gift from God underscores the essence of grace in the Christian faith. Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches that 'for by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.' This doctrine emphasizes that our salvation is not contingent upon our merit or effort but solely dependent on Christ's accomplished work. As sinners, we must rely on God's mercy and His initiative in drawing us to Himself. This beautiful truth frees believers from the burden of trying to attain salvation through personal efforts or adherence to the law, resting in the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice.
Commentary