Ephesians 2:10
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.Ephesians 2:10
What does Ephesians 2:10 mean?
Paul describes believers as God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared in advance. Purpose and good works flow out of what God has already made a person to be, rather than earning that identity.
Context
This verse follows directly after Paul's famous statement on salvation by grace through faith, not works (Ephesians 2:8-9). Verse 10 clarifies that good works still matter — not as the basis of salvation, but as the intended outcome and purpose of a life transformed by grace.
Key themes
Related Bible verses
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.
Bible study
- How does this verse balance the truth of Ephesians 2:8-9 (salvation not by works) with the call to good works here?
- What does it mean that these good works were 'ordained' or prepared beforehand?
- What good work might God have prepared specifically for you to walk in?
Prayer
A short devotional prayer inspired by this verse — not scripture
Lord, thank You for making me Your workmanship. Show me the good works You've prepared for me, and give me the willingness to walk in them. Amen.
Memorize this verse
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Share this verse
Frequently asked questions
How does this verse relate to Ephesians 2:8-9?
Those verses establish that salvation is by grace through faith, not works; verse 10 follows immediately to clarify that good works are still the intended purpose and outcome of that salvation, not its basis.
What does 'workmanship' mean in this context?
It pictures believers as something crafted or made by God — the same root word is sometimes translated 'masterpiece' or 'handiwork' — emphasizing God's active shaping of a person's life and purpose.