What is the role of grace in the Reformed view of salvation?

The role of grace in the Reformed perspective is central to understanding salvation. Grace is defined as the unmerited favor of God, meaning it is a gift that we do not deserve and cannot earn through our works. Ephesians 2:8 states, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.' This signifies that salvation is entirely God's work, and it highlights His sovereignty in the process of redemption. Knowing that salvation is grounded in grace helps believers rest in the assurance that their standing before God is not based on personal merit but on Christ's finished work on the cross. This perspective alleviates the burden of performance, allowing believers to live in gratitude and obedience in response to God's grace.