Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works
Introduction: The Purpose Behind the Gift
Have you ever received a gift that came with a purpose? Maybe it was a set of tools to build something, a cookbook to inspire your culinary creativity, or a musical instrument to unlock your inner artist. Gifts like these aren’t just meant to be admired; they’re meant to be used.
In Ephesians 2:10, Paul tells us that salvation is like that kind of gift. It’s not just a ticket to heaven; it’s a calling to a new way of life. After explaining that we are saved by grace through faith (vv. 8-9), Paul reveals the purpose behind this incredible gift: “For we are what God has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life” (Ephesians 2:10, NRSV).
This verse is a powerful reminder that salvation isn’t just about what we’re saved from (sin and death); it’s also about what we’re saved for (good works). Let’s dive into this passage and explore how God’s grace shapes our purpose and calling.
Verse by Verse Breakdown of Ephesians 2:10 and Commentary
Ephesians 2:10 is the culmination of Paul’s argument in Ephesians 2:1-10. After describing our hopeless condition apart from Christ (vv. 1-3), the overwhelming mercy and love of God (vv. 4-7), and the gift of salvation by grace through faith (vv. 8-9), Paul now reveals the purpose of our salvation: good works.
This verse is often misunderstood. Some people think it means we are saved by good works, but that’s not what Paul is saying. Instead, he’s saying we are saved for good works. Good works are the fruit of salvation, not the root.
Andrew T. Lincoln, in his Word Biblical Commentary on Ephesians, describes this verse as the “practical outworking” of God’s grace. It’s a reminder that our salvation is not just a private, spiritual experience; it’s a call to live out our faith in tangible ways. Let’s break it down phrase by phrase.
1. “For we are what God has made us…” (Ephesians 2:10a)
Paul begins by emphasizing that our identity is rooted in God’s creative work. The Greek word for “made” (poiēma) is where we get the English word “poem.” It suggests that we are God’s masterpiece, carefully crafted and uniquely designed.
This idea echoes Genesis 1:27, where we are told that humanity was created in the image of God. But here, Paul takes it a step further: we are not just created by God; we are re-created in Christ Jesus.
Article 14 of the Belgic Confession declares, “We believe that God created man out of the dust of the earth and made and formed him after God’s own image and likeness.” This reminds us that our identity and purpose are rooted in God’s creative work, both in creation and in redemption.
How does knowing you are God’s masterpiece change the way you view yourself and others? Let this truth fill you with confidence and gratitude.
2. “…created in Christ Jesus for good works…” (Ephesians 2:10b)
Paul then reveals the purpose of our re-creation: good works. The Greek word for “created” (ktizō) is the same word used in Genesis 1:1 to describe God’s creation of the world. This suggests that our new life in Christ is just as much an act of divine creativity as the creation of the universe.
But what are these “good works”? They are not just random acts of kindness but a purposeful way of life that reflects God’s character and advances God’s kingdom.
Question 86 of the Heidelberg Catechism asks, “Since we have been delivered from our misery by grace through Christ without any merit of our own, why must we still do good works?” The answer is profound: “So that with our whole life we may show ourselves grateful to God for God’s benefits and so that God may be praised through us.” This aligns perfectly with Paul’s teaching that good works are the natural response to God’s grace.
What good works has God prepared for you? Look for opportunities to serve others and glorify God in your daily life.
3. “…which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life” (Ephesians 2:10c)
Paul concludes by emphasizing that these good works are not an afterthought; they are part of God’s eternal plan. The phrase “prepared beforehand” suggests that God has a specific purpose for each of us, and that purpose is woven into the fabric of our salvation.
This idea is echoed in Jeremiah 29:11, where God declares, “For surely I know the plans I have for you, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” God’s plans for us include not only our salvation but also our sanctification and service.
Chapter 16 of the Westminster Confession of Faith states, “Good works, done in obedience to God’s commandments, are the fruits and evidences of a true and lively faith.” This reminds us that good works are not optional; they are the natural outgrowth of a genuine faith.
How can you align your life with God’s purposes? Spend time in prayer and Scripture, asking God to reveal the good works God has prepared for you.
Ephesians 2:10 Meaning for Today
God’s Masterpiece: We are re-created in Christ Jesus, designed for a purpose.
Good Works: Our salvation is not just for our benefit; it’s for the benefit of others.
God’s Plan: The good works we do are part of God’s eternal plan, prepared beforehand for us.
Gratitude and Praise: Good works are our way of showing gratitude to God and bringing glory to God’s name.
Conclusion: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Ephesians 2:10 is a powerful reminder that salvation is not just a one-time event; it’s a lifelong journey of transformation and service. As you go about your week, remember that you are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works. Let this truth inspire you to live boldly, love deeply, and serve faithfully, knowing that your life is part of God’s eternal plan.
