What does it mean that salvation is by grace and not works?

The doctrine of salvation by grace emphasizes that it is a gift from God rather than something that can be achieved through human effort or merit. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.' This principle confronts the legalistic mindset exemplified by the rich young man who believed that his adherence to the law was sufficient for salvation. The true purpose of the law is to reveal our inability to save ourselves, leading us to the realization that salvation is only possible through faith in Christ and His finished work.