What does the Bible say about religious zeal and salvation?

Paul's assertion in his speech in Acts 22 demonstrates that even the most zealous religious practices do not secure salvation. His former zeal led him to persecute Christians, but it was not until God intervened that he found true faith. Philippians 1:29 asserts, 'For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,' indicating that genuine faith is a divine bestowal rather than a human endeavor. Therefore, zeal without understanding and relationship to God is ultimately futile.