Why is grace emphasized over works in salvation?

The doctrine of grace asserts that our salvation is not a result of our works but is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8-9 highlights that we are saved by grace through faith, not of ourselves, as it is the gift of God. This understanding underscores that any attempt to mix grace with works leads to confusion and a perversion of the gospel. God’s grace alone is sufficient for salvation; any reliance on works leads to a self-righteous attitude and a disconnection from the true source of holiness and righteousness, which is in Christ alone.