“And if by grace, then it is no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.” In other words, grace and works represent two mutually exclusive systems. They’re diametrically opposed to each other. And the remnant at this time are those that are not saved by works or by merit, but they’re saved by the grace of God. That is what Paul is saying. The future purpose of God, from the day Paul wrote down to the present, is those that will accept the grace of God.