Why is grace essential for salvation according to the Bible?

Grace is a central theme in the New Testament, highlighted in passages like Ephesians 2:8-9, which states that we are saved by grace through faith, and that not of ourselves; it is the gift of God. Hebrews 13:9 also emphasizes that a heart established with grace is preferable to being carried away by strange doctrines. Grace signifies that our salvation is completely dependent on Christ's work, rather than our merits or attempts to earn favor. Understanding grace encourages humility and a reliance on the perfect sacrifice of Christ for our sins.