What is the significance of grace in salvation?

Grace serves as the foundation of salvation, highlighting that it is by grace alone that we are saved, not by any works of our own, as emphasized in Ephesians 2:8-9, 'For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.' This doctrine affirms that salvation is entirely an act of God’s kindness towards humanity, enabling us to receive what we do not deserve. Without grace, we are left in our sinful condition, but through Christ’s atoning sacrifice, we receive the righteousness of God and are deemed acceptable before Him. Understanding grace deepens the believer's appreciation for the Gospel and fosters heartfelt gratitude toward God.