Why is salvation by works considered a wicked way?

Salvation by works is portrayed in Scripture, particularly in Proverbs 14:12 and Ezekiel 3:18, as a perilous path that leads to destruction. This way appeals to the flesh because it suggests that man's effort can merit favor with God. However, the Gospel emphasizes that salvation is purely by grace through faith in Christ, as affirmed in Ephesians 2:8-9. When we rely on works, we deny the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice and risk eternal separation from God. True salvation comes from acknowledging our inability to save ourselves and resting entirely on Christ's finished work.