Why is it important to believe that salvation is a work of God?

Salvation is described in Scripture as a complete work of God, as seen in Ephesians 2:8-9, which states that we are saved by grace through faith, and this is not of ourselves; it is the gift of God. Acknowledging that salvation is entirely God’s work eliminates the notion of meritorious human effort and underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing and redeeming His people. It reinforces the truth that human efforts can never achieve righteousness or favor with God. Instead, faith and repentance are gifts from God that arise from the new birth. This understanding of salvation serves to cultivate humility and trust in God's perfect plan for redemption.