Ah, yes, the cornerstone verse that makes clear that salvation is not of our own works. Salvation is a gift -- gift, as in freely given to the recipient, without any conditions, including works. Nobody can take credit for their own salvation, "... lest any man should boast." V. 10 of the same passage amplifies the idea of works, being a response to what God has already done through grace, not a means to salvation.

Thank you Roger for your valuable input.