What does the Bible say about works and salvation?

According to Scripture, particularly in Romans 11:6, if it is by grace, it cannot be based on works; otherwise, grace would no longer be grace. This distinction is crucial as it asserts that our salvation is not earned but given freely by God. Good works are not the means to achieve salvation but are the result of a genuine faith that springs from the grace we have received. Ephesians 2:10 further clarifies that we are created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand for us to walk in, indicating that while works are important, they are the fruit of our salvation rather than the root of it.