Biblical explanation
Ephesians 2:8-9 is explicit: "For by grace are ye saved through faith... not of works." Paul repeatedly teaches that people are justified by faith rather than by "works of the law" (Romans 3:28; Galatians 2:16). However, Paul does not conclude that works are irrelevant. The very next verse after Ephesians 2:8-9 says believers are "created in Christ Jesus unto good works" (Ephesians 2:10). James addresses the opposite error. He asks, "What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works?" (James 2:14). James is not teaching that humans can purchase salvation by good deeds. He is showing that a faith that produces no obedience is not living faith. A dead faith is merely an intellectual claim. Genuine faith changes the person. Jesus described the same principle when He said, "Ye shall know them by their fruits" (Matthew 7:16). Therefore: We are not saved because we have good works. We are saved by God's grace through faith, and the faith that receives God's grace produces good works. Scripture rejects salvation by human merit, but it does not reject obedience. It rejects using obedience as the basis for boasting while affirming obedience as the fruit of faith.
Key takeaway
Salvation is entirely by grace through faith in Christ. His atoning sacrifice, heavenly ministry, and intercession are the foundation of assurance; obedience, Sabbath faithfulness, and loving service are the fruit of a redeemed life, never a way to purchase acceptance with God.