Ephesians 2:9

The Passion Translation

So no one will ever be able to boast, for salvation is never a reward for good works or human striving.

Cross References

Romans 11:6

And since it is by God’s grace, it can’t be a matter of their good works; otherwise, it wouldn’t be a gift of grace, but earned by human effort.

Romans 3:20

For by the merit of observing the law no one earns the status of being declared righteous before God, for it is the law that fully exposes and unmasks the reality of sin.

Romans 4:2

Was it by his good works of keeping the law? No. For if it was by the things he did, he would have something to boast about, but no one boasts before God.

Romans 9:11

And before her twin sons were born, God spoke to Rebekah and said: “The oldest will serve the youngest.” God spoke these words before the sons had done anything good or bad, which proves that God calls people not on the basis of their good or bad works, but according to his divine purpose.

Romans 9:16

Again, this proves that God’s choice doesn’t depend on how badly someone wants it or tries to earn it, but it depends on God’s kindness and mercy.

2 Timothy 1:9

He gave us resurrection life and drew us to himself by his holy calling on our lives. And it wasn’t because of any good we have done, but by his divine pleasure and marvelous grace that confirmed our union with the anointed Jesus, even before time began!