Why is understanding the cause and effect of faith important for Christians?

Understanding the cause and effect of faith helps Christians recognize that salvation is entirely a work of God's grace. The sermon teaches that faith itself does not save, but it is the channel through which God's grace is received. This is crucial in rejecting any notion of salvation through works. If we understand that it is God who is the first cause of salvation, we are led to humility and gratefulness for His inexplicable mercy. This recognition cultivates assurance and fosters a deeper reliance on God rather than on our own abilities, thus reinforcing the security of believers in their salvation as described in Scripture.