JEFF TURNER

Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” Some wonder whether the “gift” in this verse refers only to faith, only to grace, or to both. The passage shows that the answer includes all of it. It includes grace, faith, and salvation. All are given by God. None of them come from human effort.

The chapter explains the need for this gift. Before receiving new life, people are spiritually dead because of sin, following the ways of the world and under God’s judgment. This is the natural state of humanity, separated from Him and unable to save itself.

The turning point is found in the words “But God.” Because of His mercy and great love, He gives spiritual life, provides His grace, grants saving faith, and brings complete salvation. All who are saved have received every part of it from Him alone.

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

2 Corinthians 9:15