The comments on this verse focus on two important elements. The first is the definition of grace, and the second will be the phrase that “we are saved, after all we can do.”
Grace is a fundamental element of the relationship between God and his children on earth. It might be best understood in a more modern translation of Romans 11:6, by Thomas Wayment: “And if it is by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise, grace is no longer grace.” Paul sets up an important dichotomy. Grace is not the same as works, and if we obtain any blessing through our work, then it is not by grace.
The context of grace comes in the relationship of the ruler and those who he rules. The ruler provides benefits to those being ruled that are quite apart from anything that they might do for themselves. The ruler provides protection from outside dangers, in the ideal situation. That is not necessarily something that the individual can do.
This type of relationship was better understood in the ancient world where it dominated their reality in ways that are foreign to us. Faith was not just a belief, but a faithfulness, a consistency in applying the mutual rules of interaction. It was a type of loyalty to the one providing the benefits.
Thus, the grace of God is providing to us what we cannot do for ourselves. We cannot resurrect ourselves. Christ’s atonement provided that benefit universally. We cannot save ourselves. Christ’s atonement enables us to take advantage of repentance so that we can improve and become worthy of the heavenly kingdom.
Grace supplies what we cannot do, but that does not mean that there is no part that we should play in the relationship. Our faithfulness, our loyalty, our effort is required. Work is involved in the relationship, but not in the provision of the benefits.