What does Ephesians 2:10 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 2:10 is a biblical verse that communicates a profound truth about Christian identity and purpose.

The phrase "we are his workmanship" suggests that believers are God's creation.

The Greek word translated as "workmanship" is "poiema," which is where we get the English word "poem." It implies that we are God’s "masterpiece" or "handiwork." The subsequent portion, "created in Christ Jesus," asserts that this new creation is through having a relationship with Jesus Christ.

The phrase "unto good works" identifies the purpose of this creation, which is to perform good deeds. The good works are not the cause but the effect and evidence of this new creation.

Furthermore, these good works are not arbitrary; they have been prepared or "ordained" by God Himself, indicating divine intentionality. Believers are expected to "walk in them," which implies living out these works in their daily lives.

Historical Context

This verse is situated within a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus (hence the name Ephesians), likely composed around AD 62 while he was imprisoned in Rome.

In the historical context, Ephesus was a major city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) and an important center for trade and religion within the Roman Empire.

The Christian community there was composed of both Jewish and Gentile believers, and part of Paul’s message was aimed at promoting unity within this diverse body of Christ.

Ephesians 2:10 falls into a section where Paul points out that salvation is not earned by human efforts but is a gift from God.

Theological Insights

The verse provides various theological insights.

It underscores the notion of "Sola Gratia", the idea that salvation is by grace alone.

By emphasizing the believer as God's creation in Christ, it refutes the concept of salvation by works.

It also supports the idea of "Sola Fide," faith alone, by underscoring the role of faith in Christ for this new creation.

Catholic teaching acknowledges the necessity of good works, seeing them as evidence of faith and the grace of God working within the believer, rather than as the means of earning salvation.

Practical Applications

Practically, Ephesians 2:10 can inspire Christians to live out their faith intentionally, being mindful that their lives are meant to exhibit the good works that reflect God's character and purpose.

It can encourage believers to seek out what "good works" God may have prepared for them individually, and to recognize that such works are part of their calling as followers of Christ.

It should also humble believers, as the verse reminds them that their redemption and capacity for good works come from God's grace and action, not their merit.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
• James 2:18 - "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works."
• Philippians 2:13 - "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

Language Study

The key words in this verse include:

• "Workmanship" (Greek "poiema"): implies something created with care and craftsmanship, akin to a work of art or poetry.
• "Created" (Greek "ktizo"): implies bringing something into existence, especially indicating the new nature of a believer in Christ.
• "Christ Jesus": emphasizing the centrality of Jesus in this new creation.
• "Good works" (Greek "agathos ergon"): These are not merely ethical deeds, but works that have an inherent goodness, fitting for God’s purpose.
• "Ordained" (Greek "proetoimazo"): means to prepare beforehand, suggesting divine forethought and planning.
• "Walk" (Greek "peripateo"): metaphorically used for the conduct of one’s life.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In Graeco-Roman culture, the idea that a deity could have a special workmanship was not unusual; gods were often credited with creating kings or heroes for specific purposes.

Many ancient myths contain stories of beings crafted by gods with a designated role to play.

In contrast, the biblical concept is unique in that it identifies every believer as a divine workmanship, rather than elevating a select few to perform the will of the gods.

Scientific Perspectives

The intersection with modern scientific understandings is minimal, as Ephesians 2:10 largely pertains to matters of faith and metaphysics rather than empirical science.

However, it could be discussed in terms of the psychological and sociological benefits of feeling a sense of purpose and being part of a community, both of which are implied in this idea of being created for good works within a faith context.

Commentaries

Expert commentary varies, but often aligns on key points:

• Many emphasize Paul's rejection of the notion that human works can earn salvation, instead underscoring the role of faith and grace.
• Some highlight the "workmanship" as suggesting a transformation that reflects God’s artistic and purposeful design.
• Others focus on the preparedness of good works, suggesting that Christians should seek divine guidance in finding the opportunities God has set for them to do good.
• Differing views may arise on the nature and purpose of the "good works," but there is broad agreement that they are integral to the lived experience of a Christian.