What does the Bible mean by 'the gift of God'?

The term 'gift of God' in Scripture signifies the unearned and gracious provision of salvation available to all who believe. In Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul clarifies that '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 underscores that salvation is entirely an act of God’s grace, not dependent on human effort or merit. In the biblical narrative, God invites sinners not merely to accept an offer but to receive a gift—Christ Himself, who fulfills all righteousness on their behalf. This gift is characterized by its unconditional nature and everlasting promise, as seen in John 3:16, where God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son for our salvation.