What role does grace play in salvation according to Scripture?

Ephesians 2:8-9 states, '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 highlights the central role of grace as the means by which God's elect are saved. The sermon emphasizes that our spiritual state is akin to that of the lame man—utterly helpless and in need of divine grace. Salvation is not something one can earn; rather, it is a gracious gift from God, emphasizing His mercy and the necessity of Christ's atoning work.