Why is it important for Christians to understand grace over works?

The distinction between grace and works is foundational in Christian theology. The Apostle Paul addresses this in Galatians, where he argues that salvation and sanctification are by grace alone through faith in Christ, not by works of the law. In Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul reiterates that we are saved by grace through faith, and that not of ourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast. This truth liberates believers from the burden of performance and helps them to understand their total dependence on God’s grace, fostering a genuine and heartfelt response of gratitude and love towards God rather than fear of failure.