Lord’s Library editors compiled this short resource to provide you a by grace through faith meaning from Ephesians 2:8-9 in the KJV Bible.
One of the most encouraging phrases in Christian theology is found in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, particularly in Ephesians 2:8-9. The verses explain: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” At the heart of these Scriptures is the Gospel of Grace. As described in the Christian context, grace is the unmerited favor of God toward man. It is an expression of God’s love that is not earned, but that was proven through His sending His Son to suffer and die on the cross for the sin of the world.
Romans 5:8 shows us the depth of this grace: “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” This demonstrates that grace is not a response to what we do; instead, it is a reflection of God’s character and His desire to be in a relationship with us.
By Grace Through Faith Meaning
Faith is the means by which we receive this grace. It is more than just intellectual assent or acknowledgment; it is a trust and reliance on God and His promises. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as: “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Faith is, therefore, the assurance and conviction in the things of God, even those that are beyond our physical perception. It’s through this faith, a gift in itself, that we can receive the grace of salvation.
Ephesians 2:8-9 is particularly powerful because it emphasizes that salvation is not a result of man’s “good” religious works. The phrase “not of works, lest any man should boast” underscores the idea that no one can earn salvation through their actions; it is the gift of God! This is further emphasized in Isaiah 64:6 and Romans 3:10-12:
- Isaiah 64:6: “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.”
- Romans 3:10-12: “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.”
These verses highlight that even our best efforts are insufficient for salvation. It’s only through the Gospel of Jesus Christ that one can be saved.
This concept radically shifts the perspective of salvation from human-centered to God-centered. It’s not about what we can do but about what God has already done through the finished work of His Son Jesus Christ. This truth brings both humility and joy. Humility, because it acknowledges our inability to attain salvation on our own; and joy, because it assures us that salvation is a gift from believing the Gospel.
This understanding of grace and faith fosters a relationship with God characterized by gratitude and love rather than fear and obligation, even if it fear is the beginning of wisdom. See Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”
When believers understand that their salvation is secured not by their merit but by God’s grace, they’re motivated to live out their faith through love and good works, not to earn salvation, but as a response to the immense love they’ve received. This is reflected in Ephesians 2:10: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
Exploring the relationship between the Law of Moses and the grace of Christ can offer further distinction as well. Passages like Romans 3:20 help one understand that The Law (or good works) were never intended to save but to make us aware of our need for grace: “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.”
Ephesians 2:8-9 offers a declarative snapshot of human salvation. It is a message of hope and assurance, rooted in the character of God and His desire for a restored relationship with His creation. This concept challenges believers to live a life of faith, humbly reliant on God’s grace and compelled by love to serve and honor Him. As you reflect on these truths, may you find assurance, joy, and inspiration in the incredible free gift of salvation offered to you through the blood atonement of Jesus Christ, amen.
Lord's Library is a Christian resource hub. Our editors use a variety of internet research methods like search engines, audio and video, AI, consultations with ministry leaders in the field, and more. Lord's Library should never be a substitute for reading your Bible daily as the Scriptures are to be our final authority on all matters. Lord's Library participates in affiliate programs. We may make a small commission from products purchased through this resource.
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