Why is the grace of God important in the gospel?

The grace of God is foundational to the gospel, emphasizing that salvation is not earned by works but is a gift from God. Ephesians 2:8-9 states that 'by grace you are saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast.' This underscores the Reformed understanding that human effort cannot contribute to salvation; it is solely by God's mercy and grace that sinners are redeemed. The gospel of grace assures believers that they are accepted based on Christ's righteousness, not their own.