Why is salvation by grace alone essential for Christians?

The principle of salvation by grace alone emphasizes that it is God's unmerited favor that saves us, not our own efforts. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, 'For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.' This principle underscores our total dependence on God's mercy. If salvation depended even in part on human works, all would be lost, as we are incapable of pleasing God through our actions. Thus, understanding salvation as entirely by grace alone glorifies God’s sovereignty and affirms our need for His saving work.