What is the meaning of Ephesians 2:10?

Ephesians 2:10 is a profound verse that encapsulates the essence of Christian identity and purpose. It reads, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (ESV). This verse, though brief, is rich with theological significance and practical implications for the believer. To fully grasp its meaning, we must explore its context within the epistle, its theological underpinnings, and its practical applications.

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians while he was imprisoned, likely in Rome, around AD 60-62. The epistle addresses both theological doctrines and practical Christian living, aiming to encourage and instruct the believers in Ephesus. Ephesians 2:10 comes after a detailed exposition on grace and salvation in verses 1-9, where Paul emphasizes that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human effort. This context is crucial for understanding verse 10, which transitions from the foundation of grace to the purpose of the believer's new life in Christ.

First, let's consider the phrase "we are his workmanship." The Greek word for workmanship is "poiēma," which can be translated as "creation" or "work of art." This term suggests that believers are not merely products of divine assembly but are masterpieces crafted by God Himself. It conveys the idea that each Christian is uniquely designed and intricately formed by the Creator. This echoes the Old Testament sentiment found in Psalm 139:14, where the psalmist declares, "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well" (NIV). The notion of being God's workmanship instills a sense of value, purpose, and identity in the believer, affirming that we are not random accidents but intentional creations.

The next part of the verse, "created in Christ Jesus," underscores the transformative aspect of salvation. When Paul speaks of being created in Christ Jesus, he refers to the new birth or regeneration that occurs when a person places their faith in Christ. This concept is further elaborated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, where Paul writes, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come" (ESV). This new creation is not merely a moral reformation but a radical transformation of identity and nature, brought about by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

The purpose of this new creation is "for good works." Here, Paul addresses the role of works in the life of a believer. While verses 8-9 make it clear that salvation is by grace through faith and not by works, verse 10 clarifies that good works are the result, not the cause, of salvation. Good works are the natural outflow of a life transformed by grace. They are the evidence of genuine faith and the fruit of the Spirit's work in the believer's life. James 2:17 reinforces this by stating, "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (ESV). Thus, good works are not optional but integral to the Christian life, serving as a testimony of God's transformative power.

The phrase "which God prepared beforehand" reveals the divine orchestration behind the believer's good works. This indicates that God, in His sovereignty, has preordained specific acts of service and obedience for each believer. These preordained works are not random or arbitrary but are part of God's eternal plan and purpose. This concept is reminiscent of Jeremiah 1:5, where God tells the prophet, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations" (ESV). Just as God had a specific plan for Jeremiah, He has a unique purpose for each believer, intricately woven into His divine narrative.

Finally, the phrase "that we should walk in them" emphasizes the believer's responsibility to actively engage in these good works. The term "walk" implies a continuous, habitual lifestyle rather than sporadic or isolated acts. It suggests that good works should be an integral part of the believer's daily life, reflecting a consistent pattern of obedience and service. This aligns with Paul's exhortation in Ephesians 4:1, where he urges the believers to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called" (ESV). Walking in good works is a tangible expression of living out one's faith and calling.

In summary, Ephesians 2:10 encapsulates the believer's identity, purpose, and calling in Christ. As God's workmanship, believers are uniquely crafted and transformed by grace, created anew in Christ Jesus. The purpose of this new creation is to engage in good works, which God has sovereignly prepared in advance. These good works are not the means of salvation but the evidence of it, reflecting the transformative power of grace in the believer's life. Therefore, believers are called to walk in these good works, living out their faith in a manner that glorifies God and fulfills His divine purpose. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the believer's identity and mission, encouraging a life of purpose, obedience, and service.