As Christians, the scripture urges us to look for our identity in Jesus Christ. The book of Genesis notes that we were created in the image and likeness of God. Later on in the New Testament, Paul writes in the book of Ephesians 2:10 that we are created in Jesu Christ to do good works. What does that really mean? This article will expound more on what ‘created in Jesus Christ to do good works’ mean.
Theologians and scholars agree that being created in Jesus Christ to do his good works is a reflection of the creation, sanctification, provision, and redemption in the life of every believer. Paul is clear in his letters that we were saved not for our good works but through faith. Therefore, being created in Jesus Christ to do good works is an encouraging message to believers as it indicates that we are new beings and are meant to fulfill the will of God.
So, what does it mean to be created in Jesus Christ? What does it mean to be God’s handiwork? What are some Bible verses about the good works God has prepared for us? What does Jesus say about good works? What does Ephesians 2:10 mean? What are good works according to Ephesians 2:10? What are some examples of good works according to the bible? Continue reading to get more answers and insight into these questions and more.
What does it mean to be created in Jesus Christ?
To be created in Jesus Christ means that we are washed clean and have a new identity in Christ. Paul does not only say we are created in Jesus Christ but explains how each person of the trinity contributed towards our new identity in Jesus Christ. He says in Ephesians 1:4 that God the father predestines, God the son redeemed us through his blood (Ephesians 1:7), and in Ephesians 1:13-14 that the holy spirit seals everything.
Being created in Jesus Christ means that we are no longer in the state of being lost, but we have been born again in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:5 says, “Even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, by grace you have been saved.”
What does it mean to be God’s handiwork?
Being God’s handiwork is more than just being part of his creation; it refers to the skill degree to which the creation product is made. So, the meaning of being God’s handiwork means that we were created in his image and likeness.
Other than being his creation, being God’s handiwork means that he redeemed us. Just from the beginning of the universe in the garden of Eden, mankind rebelled against the authority and instructions of God, hence sinning against the perfect world that God had created for us. However, being his workmanship, God had to redeem us by sending his only son to die for us so that we may be saved. 1st Peter 1:18-19 says that we were not redeemed by the blood of lamps but by the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
Furthermore, being the handiwork of God means that he sanctifies us. Philippians 2:13 says, “For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” Being his workmanship (handiwork) means he moulds us to be what he wants us to be so that we can fulfill his will on earth. Therefore, the whole community of believers is the workmanship of God.
Bible verses about the good works God has prepared for us
Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, “Whatever your hands find to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”
The scriptures urge us that in whatever we do, we should do it with everything we have. If it is the good works that the Lord has prepared for us, we have to fully immerse ourselves in them.
2nd Corinthians 5:10 says, “For we must all appear for the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”
We shall all be judged at the end day. Therefore, it is key to maintain the good works that we are required to do while on earth.
Titus 3:8 reads, “That those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works.”
When walking in Jesus, we are letters to be read by believers and non-believers. Therefore, in everything we do, we should maintain good work.
James 3:13 says. “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.
The book of James is clear that those who have wisdom and are in Christ Jesus will do the good works of the Lord in the humility of wisdom. God exalts the humble and despises the proud.
What Jesus says about good works
Jesus indicated that doing good works in him is to bear fruits. He notes in the book of John 15:5 that he is the vine and we are branches, and whoever stays in him will bear fruits. It is through Jesus Christ that we get to do the good works that God has prepared for us because it is only in him that we get salvation.
Furthermore, Christ taught about good works in the book of Mathew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in Heaven.” It is through the good works that we may be identified with Jesus Christ, and only through that can others glorify God.
What are good works according to Ephesians 2:10?
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” According to this verse, Paul indicated that the good works he is talking about are the will of God. God’s promises and will are found in his scripture. The scripture notes that we should walk as Jesus did. Jesus loved wholeheartedly; he was compassionate, kind, and above all, forgiving. Therefore, we are identified with Jesus Christ by doing these good works.
What are some examples of good works according to the bible?
Paul mentions in the same book of Ephesians the good works that we are prepared for. He notes that we should walk in a manner worthy of the calling we have received, which means we have to live our purpose in Jesus Christ fully.
Paul notes that some examples of good works involve walking in patience, humility, gentleness, loving each other, and maintaining unity (Ephesians 4:1-6). Basically, that is what Jesus Christ embodied; he was so humble to the point of being despised so that he could unite us with God through his death. He loved us so much to die for us. That is how we should move, as that is what Jesus Christ expects us to do.
References
Ephesians 2:10 – Meaning if we are God’s workmanship
Lesson 15: Salvation and Good works (Ephesians 2:10)
Created in Christ for good works?
What does it mean that we were created for good works (Ephesians 2:10)?
What does it mean that we are God’s workmanship in Ephesians 2:10?
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
