What role do works play in a Christian's salvation?

The New Testament clearly teaches that works are not the means of obtaining salvation. Romans 11:6 illustrates that if salvation were by grace, it cannot also be by works; otherwise, grace would not be grace. This distinction is essential in understanding that salvation is a gift from God, not a reward for human effort. Believers are called to good works as an outflow of their faith, demonstrating the transformative power of God's grace in their lives rather than as a precursor to earning salvation. Understanding this protects against the legalistic view that could undermine the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice.