Ephesians 2:8 Commentary

Barnes emphasizes that salvation comes entirely from God's grace, not from human effort or merit. He explains that faith is the means by which this grace is received, but even faith itself is a gift from God, preventing any room for boasting in ourselves.

“Salvation is a complete work of God's grace, received through faith which is also a divine gift.”

Spurgeon highlights that grace is the fountainhead of salvation, and faith is the channel through which it flows to us. He strongly asserts that the entire process, including the ability to believe, is God's unmerited favor and a precious gift.

“Grace is the source, faith the channel, and salvation a divine gift, leaving no room for human pride.”

Calvin stresses that salvation is solely by God's grace, a free gift that we receive through faith. He argues that this faith is also a gift of God, enabling us to grasp the salvation offered, thereby excluding any human contribution to our being saved.

“Grace is the cause, faith the instrument, and both are God's sovereign gifts, ensuring salvation is entirely His work.”

Wesley teaches that salvation is a blessing of God's unmerited favor (grace), received through faith. He sees faith as the means by which we lay hold of this grace, and he emphasizes that this faith is also divinely enabled, preventing works from being the basis of salvation.

“Grace is the foundation of salvation, received by faith, which itself is empowered by God.”

Henry explains that salvation is a free gift from God's grace, not earned by anything we do. Faith is the way we accept this gift, but he also notes that faith is given by God, so the entire process leads to humility and gratitude.

“Salvation is a free gift rooted in grace and received through faith, itself a divine provision.”