Titus 3:5 not by works of righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy, he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit Not by works of righteousness we did?
What works? Simple, JUSTIFICATION, we cannot, cannot be justified by our works, why? Because we all sin, we are born into sin, hence, we have no righteousness before God.
Christ Jesus was justified by his own works, he was not a sinner, that is why we must be justified by his righteousness, which means, his works. Christ life force was in his blood, it is his righteous blood that saves us not our good works. Saved by unmerited kindness given freely to us in Christ Jesus life.
Romans 11:6 And if by grace, then it is no longer of works;