What does 'Salvation is of the Lord' mean?

'Salvation is of the Lord' encapsulates the central idea of historic Reformed theology, emphasizing that God alone is the source and completer of salvation. This means that human efforts and works play no role in achieving salvation; instead, it is entirely an act of God's grace (Romans 9:16). The doctrine highlights that God chooses, calls, and keeps His people, ensuring that salvation is guaranteed for those He has elected. It dismantles the notion that individuals can earn or merit God's favor, stressing instead the necessity of divine intervention in our spiritual deadness. Understanding this profound truth frees believers from the burden of self-reliance and affirms the complete sufficiency of Christ's atoning work.