Lesson 36: Ephesians 2:10
The Blueprint — The Verse
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. Through His crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus provides atonement, salvation, and restored relationship with God. He is... More to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More wrote to EphesusA major port city of Roman Asia Minor, known for its wealth, political influence, and religious prominence. Ephesus was home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which operated not only as a religious sanctuary but as the central bank of Asia Minor, holding royal deposits, issuing loans, and driving a massive tourism... More, where ArtemisThe principal Greek goddess of protection, fertility, wilderness, and sovereignty, widely worshiped across the ancient Mediterranean world. In Ephesus, Artemis was honored in a uniquely amplified form, with her temple—the Artemision—standing as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and functioning as a major economic, political, and religious center. Within the Divine Council worldview, Artemis represents one of... More worship and magic practices shaped the cultural imagination. The Greek word for 'handiwork' implies a masterpiece — a striking identity for people formerly dead in sin.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
describes salvation by grace through faithTrust in God’s character, promises, and guidance — choosing confidence in Him even when circumstances are uncertain. More and reconciliation between Jew and Gentile. PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More declares believers are God's workmanship, saved not by works but created anew for good works God planned beforehand.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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not of works, that no one would boast.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately before this lesson () to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Therefore remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “uncircumcision” by that which is called “circumcision”, (in the flesh, made by hands);
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Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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How does being God's handiwork change your self-image?
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What good works might God have prepared for you today?
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How do grace and good works fit together in this verse?