Why is it significant that salvation is by faith and not by works?

The significance of salvation by faith lies in its complete dependence on God's grace. Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches that we are saved through faith and that it is not from ourselves; it is the gift of God. This principle refutes any attempts to earn salvation through works or religious rituals, which only lead to self-righteousness. Faith, therefore, acknowledges our helplessness and directs our trust solely toward Christ's redemptive work. True faith results from the new birth, wherein God reveals Himself and imparts the desire to believe, an act that underscores His mercy and grace.