Ephesians 2:10
Verse
Context
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we are his workmanship - So far is this salvation from being our own work, or granted for our own works' sake, that we are ourselves not only the creatures of God, but our new creation was produced by his power; for we are created in Christ Jesus unto good works. He has saved us that we may show forth the virtues of Him who called us from darkness into his marvelous light. For though we are not saved for our good works, yet we are saved that we may perform good works, to the glory of God and the benefit of man. Which God hath before ordained - Οἱς προητοιμασες· For which God before prepared us, that we might walk in them. For being saved from sin we are made partakers of the Spirit of holiness; and it is natural to that Spirit to lead to the practice of holiness; and he who is not holy in his life is not saved by the grace of Christ. The before ordaining, or rather preparing, must refer to the time when God began the new creation in their hearts; for from the first inspiration of God upon the soul it begins to love holiness; and obedience to the will of God is the very element in which a holy or regenerated soul lives.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
workmanship--literally, "a thing of His making"; "handiwork." Here the spiritual creation, not the physical, is referred to (Eph 2:8-9). created--having been created (Eph 4:24; Psa 102:18; Isa 43:21; Co2 5:5, Co2 5:17). unto good works--"for good works." "Good works" cannot be performed until we are new "created unto" them. Paul never calls the works of the law "good works." We are not saved by, but created unto, good works. before ordained--Greek, "before made ready" (compare Joh 5:36). God marks out for each in His purposes beforehand, the particular good works, and the time and way which tie sees best. God both makes ready by His providence the opportunities for the works, and makes us ready for their performance (Joh 15:16; Ti2 2:21). that we should walk in them--not "be saved" by them. Works do not justify, but the justified man works (Gal 5:22-25).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we are his workmanship,.... Not as men only, but as Christians; not as creatures merely, but as new creatures; the work of grace upon the soul seems chiefly designed, which like a poem, as the word may be rendered, is a very curious work; the king's daughter is all glorious within, for this is an internal work, and is a good and excellent one; it is not indeed perfected at once, but is gradually carried on, till the finishing stroke is given to it by that hand which begun it; the author of it is God, it is not man's work; nor is it the work of ministers, no, nor of angels, but it is God's work: sometimes it is ascribed to the Spirit, who regenerates and sanctifies; and sometimes to the Son of God, who quickens whom he will; and sometimes to the Father, who reveals his Son, and draws men to him, and who seems to be meant here: the subjects of this divine operation, are the persons described in Eph 2:1 and include both Jews and Gentiles; and express the distinguishing grace of God, that they and not others, and who were by nature children of wrath as others, should be his workmanship: and this is mentioned to show, that salvation can not be by any works of men, since all their works are either wrought for them, or in them, by God; salvation is a work wrought for them without them; and sanctification is a work wrought in them by God, of his good pleasure; and all their good works are fruits of his grace, as follows: created in Christ Jesus unto good works; the work of grace is a creation, or a creature, a new creature; not a new vamp of old Adam's principles, but; an infusion of new ones, and is a work of almighty power; and such who have it wrought in them, are said to be created in Christ; because as soon as a man becomes a new creature, he is openly and visibly in Christ; and by these new principles of grace which are created in him, he is fit and ready, and in a capacity to perform good works; the new man formed in him, is formed for righteousness and true holiness; the internal principle of grace both excites unto, and qualifies for, the performance of righteous and holy actions: which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them, or has "before prepared"; for the preparation of good works to be performed by saints, and the preparation of them for the performance of them; are both from the Lord; God has appointed good works to be done by his people and in his word he has declared what they are he would have done; and it is his will not only that they should do them, but continue to do them; not only that they should do a single act or more, but walk in them; their conversation and course of life should be one continued series of good works; but the intention is not that they should be saved by them, but that they should walk in them; and this being the pre-ordination of God, as it shows that predestination is not according to good works, since good works are the fruits and effects of it, so likewise that it is no licentious doctrine; seeing it provides for the performance of good works, as well as secures grace and glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:10 He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us: Good works are the result, not the cause, of salvation. God’s Spirit, working through a transformed heart, produces a good life (Gal 5:22-23).
Ephesians 2:10
Alive with Christ
9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Two Creations (Reading)
By Watchman Nee7.3K28:11JHN 15:4ROM 6:4ROM 8:12CO 3:18GAL 2:20EPH 2:10COL 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the work of God in our lives is mysterious and beyond our understanding. He explains that through the new birth, we receive a new and divine life that is separate from our natural life. This new creation in Christ is made possible through the cross and resurrection of Jesus. The preacher encourages believers to abide in Christ and rest in the fact that God has placed them in His Son. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ rather than trying to produce fruit, as it is God's work to fulfill His promises in our lives. The sermon also highlights the distinction between the kingdom of this world, dominated by Satan, and the kingdom of God. The preacher urges believers to have faith in the objective facts of the Gospel, which will transform them and make them fruitful in their Christian walk. The key message is to continually look to Christ and see ourselves in Him, rather than focusing on our own efforts or circumstances.
(The Chief End of Man - Part 1): Worshippers of the Most High
By A.W. Tozer6.4K46:08Chief End of ManGEN 1:26PSA 45:2PSA 45:11MAT 6:33ROM 3:23EPH 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the reason for the gospel and the need for conversion. He states that many people in the world suffer from spiritual amnesia and do not know their purpose in life. The preacher introduces the topic of worship and expresses his belief that this series will be one of his best. He reads from Psalm 45, highlighting the majesty and blessings of the king. The preacher also acknowledges his own uncertainty about the purpose of his life but encourages the audience to seek understanding and meaning in their existence.
The Cost of Declaring His Glory
By Helen Roseveare6.3K24:27PSA 22:1ISA 11:1ISA 49:2MAT 6:33ROM 8:29EPH 2:10PHP 3:10In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of facing persecution and suffering for their faith. They describe a brutal attack on their home by cruel men during a rebellion. The speaker recounts being physically assaulted, with their glasses broken and teeth shattered. Despite the intense pain and fear, the speaker reflects on the privilege of being identified with Jesus and the realization that their sufferings are actually the sufferings of Christ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of fully surrendering to God and being willing to endure any cost for the sake of the gospel.
(How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): Getting Out of the Rut
By A.W. Tozer5.9K30:54Religious RutMAT 6:33JHN 14:21JHN 14:23EPH 2:10PHP 2:12In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a farmer boy who wants to catch fish. The boy remembers that the pastor said to pray for what he wants, so he prays for fish. The preacher then goes on to discuss the idea of Christians being in a religious rut and how to get out of it. He emphasizes that God is the one who initiates change in our lives and that we need to work with God to work out our salvation. The preacher uses Bible verses to support his points and encourages the audience to seek a deeper relationship with God.
This Way to Happiness: What to Do Until the King Comes
By Warren Wiersbe4.8K44:59MAT 5:1LUK 17:26JHN 1:6EPH 2:10JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the progression of human history as depicted in the book of Daniel. He explains that society is deteriorating and becoming weaker over time. The preacher highlights the acceptance and endorsement of immoral behaviors by religious people. He emphasizes the importance of Christians being the light of the world and the salt of the earth, by actively engaging with the needs of others and giving of themselves. The dangers to avoid are losing one's effectiveness as salt and hiding one's light under a bushel.
Led of the Spirit
By A.W. Tozer4.4K03:41Spirit LedMAT 28:19LUK 24:34JHN 14:16ACT 1:8ROM 1:16EPH 2:102TI 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being a witness for Christ. He highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to share their faith. The preacher discourages the reliance on books or methods on how to win souls, emphasizing the need for a genuine conversion and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He also emphasizes the need for Christians to live a righteous life that exemplifies the message they proclaim. The sermon concludes with the reminder that being a witness for Christ is not just an obligation, but also a privilege.
(Godly Home) Part 19 - Children - a Dwelling Place for the Living God
By Denny Kenaston3.4K41:46Godly Home SeriesPSA 127:3ISA 66:11CO 6:192CO 6:16EPH 2:10EPH 6:41TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of creating a nurturing environment for children in our homes. He encourages parents to be vigilant in monitoring what influences their children's minds, wills, emotions, and bodies. The speaker uses a diagram to explain that God created humans as tri-part beings, consisting of a physical body, a soul (mind, will, and emotions), and a spirit. He highlights the significance of parents guiding their children's minds, wills, and emotions, and shares examples of individuals who experienced a powerful transformation when the Holy Spirit entered their lives. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's wisdom in raising children.
In the Potters Hands
By Steve Hill3.1K05:29PSA 139:13ISA 29:16ISA 64:8JHN 15:1ACT 9:15ROM 9:211CO 12:12EPH 2:102TI 2:21HEB 12:6This sermon emphasizes how God works uniquely in each of our lives according to His purpose, even when we struggle with the trials and challenges He allows. It highlights the analogy of God as the potter and us as the clay, being molded and shaped by Him in seclusion and through various life experiences. The message encourages surrendering to God's sovereignty and recognizing our individuality and unique roles within the body of Christ, all crafted by the mighty hands of God.
Spiritual Axioms
By A.W. Tozer2.8K1:06:51Christian LifeMAT 6:33JHN 5:17ROM 8:281CO 14:2EPH 2:10PHP 2:13JAS 1:17In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing the story of David and Goliath, emphasizing how God used a young and unarmed David to defeat the giant Goliath. The preacher then moves on to discuss the passage in 1 Corinthians 12, which explains how God works in and through his people by the gift of the Holy Spirit. The preacher encourages the audience to trust in God's plan and not to be discouraged by their own ignorance or mistakes. The sermon concludes with the preacher announcing that he will be discussing spiritual actions and reading three verses from the Bible that highlight God's work in believers.
True Faith
By Albu van Eeden2.8K1:09:08Faith1KI 17:91KI 17:12PRO 28:13MAT 6:331CO 10:13EPH 2:10JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the mystery of God selecting a vessel to use. He emphasizes that God not only wants to save us but also desires to use us for His purposes. The speaker shares a personal experience of witnessing a street performer in New York City and how no one paid attention to him. This serves as a reminder that even if we feel alone or insignificant, God has a purpose for us. The sermon concludes with a call to obedience and trust in God, acknowledging that our problems and difficulties should not distract us from focusing on Him.
Walking With the Wind
By Manley Beasley2.6K39:08Spirit LedPSA 75:6PSA 77:19PSA 139:16JHN 3:8EPH 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of actively seeking and accepting God's plan for our lives. He uses the story of Gideon and the 300 men to illustrate how God can use ordinary vessels to reveal His glory. The preacher also shares personal experiences of how God's glory can be manifested even in times of physical weakness. He encourages believers to trust in God's plan and provision, reminding them that God's ways are often mysterious and beyond human understanding.
Youth Ministry
By Voddie Baucham2.3K1:05:04Youth MinistryDEU 6:6PSA 78:2EPH 2:10COL 4:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose and plan of the College and Careers ministry. Their purpose is to see unbelieving students become committed followers of Jesus Christ. They aim to achieve this through evangelizing, equipping, and engaging the students of their church and the surrounding community. The speaker emphasizes the need for improvement in youth ministry and highlights the importance of teaching the Bible and avoiding excessive focus on fun and games. They also mention a book that promotes a biblical and exegetical model for youth ministry, contrasting it with other models based on pragmatism and cultural norms. Overall, the goal of the ministry is to bring glory to God and multiply committed followers of Jesus.
(Through the Bible) Ephesians 1
By Chuck Smith2.2K1:16:521CO 6:19EPH 1:3EPH 2:10EPH 3:20EPH 4:30JUD 1:24In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the spiritual blessings that believers have in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that the church often emphasizes what believers should be doing for God, but the Bible actually emphasizes what God has done for them. The preacher spends the first three chapters of Ephesians enumerating these spiritual blessings, highlighting the richness and blessings of being a child of God. He also emphasizes that as believers grow strong and healthy in their faith, they will naturally become witnesses and share the love of Christ with others, leading to the growth and blessing of the church.
Christ in You, the Hope of Glory
By Major Ian Thomas2.2K06:421CO 6:19GAL 2:20EPH 2:10PHP 2:13COL 1:27This sermon emphasizes that the knowledge of having sins forgiven through Christ's sacrifice does not automatically transform one's spiritual capacity. It highlights that Christ's death qualifies believers to receive the life He lived, enabling them to live a different kind of life through His presence within. The focus is on inviting individuals to Jesus not just for forgiveness or heaven, but for the indwelling presence of Christ to transform and empower them for God's purposes.
Becoming What You Are
By Manley Beasley2.2K28:46Self-ImagePSA 139:16JHN 19:28JHN 21:22ROM 8:281CO 1:2EPH 2:10PHP 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of facing the issue of victory in our lives. He refers to Psalms 139:16, which speaks about God knowing and writing the days of our lives before they even come to be. The preacher also mentions Ephesians 2:10, highlighting the need to experience this truth. He then connects these verses to the crucifixion of Jesus, specifically John 19:28-30, where Jesus declares "it is finished" before giving up his life. The preacher encourages listeners to recognize themselves as overcomers and to live a life of submission to God's will.
The Singular Origin of a Christian Man
By C.H. Spurgeon2.0K47:37PSA 33:9ISA 40:13JHN 1:12JHN 3:8EPH 2:10HEB 10:241PE 1:23The sermon transcript discusses the concept of man as God's workmanship, both in the initial creation and in the process of being created anew. The speaker emphasizes the marvels of grace that have been wrought upon humanity, despite their sinful nature. The importance of labor and toil is highlighted, as it is seen as a necessary part of life and a means to earn one's daily bread. The sermon concludes with the assurance that God will continue to work on humanity with His power, long-suffering, and wisdom until they are perfected and complete.
Christ in Us - Part 1
By Norman Grubb2.0K48:27GEN 1:26JHN 8:12JHN 15:51CO 3:16EPH 2:10COL 1:27TIT 1:2HEB 6:18HEB 12:291JN 1:5This sermon delves into the concept of God's nature as a person of love and light, emphasizing the transformation from being self-focused to becoming a vessel for God's love and blessings. It explores the idea of God as a consuming fire that turns into light, symbolizing the shift from self-centeredness to selflessness. The speaker reflects on the importance of being a complete vessel for God to dwell in, acknowledging the need for personal transformation to align with God's character of love and truth.
I Have Appeared Unto Thee - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill2.0K19:32EXO 20:8NUM 13:26MIC 7:19MAT 6:33ACT 1:8GAL 2:20EPH 2:10In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Jack Brown who sells newspapers in the rain. One day, a wealthy man in a Rolls Royce approaches Jack and reveals that he has inherited a fortune from his uncle. The speaker uses this story to illustrate that God's salvation is not based on our own efforts or achievements, but on His grace and mercy. The speaker encourages the audience to surrender their lives to God and allow Him to crucify their old selves, so that they can experience true peace, joy, and freedom. The sermon emphasizes the need for humility, forgiveness, and obedience in the Christian life, and concludes with a message of hope that God will raise up powerful and anointed individuals to bring about a great manifestation of His power in the world.
Digestive System
By Dr. A.E. Wilder-Smith1.9K57:01EvolutionGEN 1:1PSA 16:11PSA 139:14PRO 16:9MAT 6:33ROM 8:28EPH 2:10In this sermon, the speaker continues to discuss the evidence for the existence of God in biology. He criticizes the Darwinian theory and argues that randomness is the enemy of meaning. The speaker highlights the intricate processes in the human body, such as the conversion of food into energy and the functioning of the nervous system, as evidence of a purposeful design. He emphasizes the importance of Christians understanding the details of these processes in order to defend their faith.
Our Relationship With Christ
By Bill McLeod1.7K54:36Relationship With Christ2CO 3:32CO 12:19EPH 2:10COL 3:111PE 2:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living as a testimony of Jesus Christ. He highlights that as believers, we are constantly being watched by the world, angels, and men. The speaker encourages Christians to walk carefully and circumspectly, knowing that our actions and behavior have an impact on others. He emphasizes that we are the only Bible that the world reads, and therefore, we should strive to live in a way that reflects the character of Christ. The sermon concludes with a reminder that our lives should be radically different as followers of Christ, and we should actively share the gospel and further the kingdom of God.
The Five Senses
By Dr. A.E. Wilder-Smith1.7K58:59SensesPSA 139:14PRO 3:5ISA 55:9ROM 1:201CO 2:9EPH 2:10COL 1:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of Logos in biology and how we experience our environment. He emphasizes the importance of our senses, including the sixth sense of extra sensory perception. The speaker highlights the wisdom of Jesus Christ in creating our ability to perceive and interact with the world. He also discusses the significance of redeemed faces and the communication we have with the external environment. The sermon encourages the audience to appreciate and think about God's thoughts.
A Spiritual Call
By Jim Binney1.7K1:00:35Calling Of GodPRO 29:18MAT 6:33LUK 5:1LUK 5:4ACT 9:151CO 15:58EPH 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a spiritual cause in life. He starts by sharing a story about a fireman who risked his life to save a baby, only to discover it was just a doll. The preacher warns that sincerity alone is not enough, and that we will be held accountable by God for what we have committed our lives to. He urges the audience not to waste their lives and to seek a spiritual cause. The sermon also references a survey where many Americans expressed a desire to know their purpose in life, and highlights the need for young people to devote themselves to a spiritual cause rather than worldly pursuits. The preacher then shares a story about a young boy who questioned why the army was afraid of Goliath, emphasizing the need for young men to dedicate their strength and youth to a spiritual cause. The sermon concludes with a passage from Luke 5, where Peter is transformed from a businessman to a minister of the gospel after a direct encounter with Jesus.
Exploring Salvation's Deposits
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K51:20SalvationMAT 28:19ROM 12:22CO 5:17EPH 2:10PHP 2:122TI 3:161PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of working out one's salvation. He uses the analogy of a person being given all the materials and plans to build a house, and emphasizes that God has provided everything we need for our spiritual growth. The speaker then highlights the power of God in raising Jesus from the dead, emphasizing that God is at work in our sanctification. He concludes by urging the audience to examine their own spiritual progress and to continue working out their salvation with fear and trembling.
Grace Walk Experience - Part 2
By Steve McVey1.7K45:37JOB 23:1PSA 139:232CO 1:8EPH 2:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting God in the midst of troubles, highlighting how our problems can lead us to a deeper reliance on God's sovereignty and purpose. It discusses how God allows burdens greater than we can bear to bring us to a place of surrender and trust in Him, ultimately transforming our lives through difficulties.
Walking With God
By James A. Stewart1.6K42:08Walking With GodPRO 27:17AMO 3:3MAT 6:33ROM 12:2EPH 2:101TH 5:11HEB 10:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of walking with God and having a perfect agreement in the theme of conversation. He shares a personal story about a jeweler who sacrificed for his children and relates it to the joy of giving for the Lord's work. The speaker also highlights the cost of evangelizing the world and the opposition from the devil. He encourages believers to have conversations about their salvation experiences and how the Lord is leading them, fostering love and burden for serving the Lord together.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we are his workmanship - So far is this salvation from being our own work, or granted for our own works' sake, that we are ourselves not only the creatures of God, but our new creation was produced by his power; for we are created in Christ Jesus unto good works. He has saved us that we may show forth the virtues of Him who called us from darkness into his marvelous light. For though we are not saved for our good works, yet we are saved that we may perform good works, to the glory of God and the benefit of man. Which God hath before ordained - Οἱς προητοιμασες· For which God before prepared us, that we might walk in them. For being saved from sin we are made partakers of the Spirit of holiness; and it is natural to that Spirit to lead to the practice of holiness; and he who is not holy in his life is not saved by the grace of Christ. The before ordaining, or rather preparing, must refer to the time when God began the new creation in their hearts; for from the first inspiration of God upon the soul it begins to love holiness; and obedience to the will of God is the very element in which a holy or regenerated soul lives.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
workmanship--literally, "a thing of His making"; "handiwork." Here the spiritual creation, not the physical, is referred to (Eph 2:8-9). created--having been created (Eph 4:24; Psa 102:18; Isa 43:21; Co2 5:5, Co2 5:17). unto good works--"for good works." "Good works" cannot be performed until we are new "created unto" them. Paul never calls the works of the law "good works." We are not saved by, but created unto, good works. before ordained--Greek, "before made ready" (compare Joh 5:36). God marks out for each in His purposes beforehand, the particular good works, and the time and way which tie sees best. God both makes ready by His providence the opportunities for the works, and makes us ready for their performance (Joh 15:16; Ti2 2:21). that we should walk in them--not "be saved" by them. Works do not justify, but the justified man works (Gal 5:22-25).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we are his workmanship,.... Not as men only, but as Christians; not as creatures merely, but as new creatures; the work of grace upon the soul seems chiefly designed, which like a poem, as the word may be rendered, is a very curious work; the king's daughter is all glorious within, for this is an internal work, and is a good and excellent one; it is not indeed perfected at once, but is gradually carried on, till the finishing stroke is given to it by that hand which begun it; the author of it is God, it is not man's work; nor is it the work of ministers, no, nor of angels, but it is God's work: sometimes it is ascribed to the Spirit, who regenerates and sanctifies; and sometimes to the Son of God, who quickens whom he will; and sometimes to the Father, who reveals his Son, and draws men to him, and who seems to be meant here: the subjects of this divine operation, are the persons described in Eph 2:1 and include both Jews and Gentiles; and express the distinguishing grace of God, that they and not others, and who were by nature children of wrath as others, should be his workmanship: and this is mentioned to show, that salvation can not be by any works of men, since all their works are either wrought for them, or in them, by God; salvation is a work wrought for them without them; and sanctification is a work wrought in them by God, of his good pleasure; and all their good works are fruits of his grace, as follows: created in Christ Jesus unto good works; the work of grace is a creation, or a creature, a new creature; not a new vamp of old Adam's principles, but; an infusion of new ones, and is a work of almighty power; and such who have it wrought in them, are said to be created in Christ; because as soon as a man becomes a new creature, he is openly and visibly in Christ; and by these new principles of grace which are created in him, he is fit and ready, and in a capacity to perform good works; the new man formed in him, is formed for righteousness and true holiness; the internal principle of grace both excites unto, and qualifies for, the performance of righteous and holy actions: which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them, or has "before prepared"; for the preparation of good works to be performed by saints, and the preparation of them for the performance of them; are both from the Lord; God has appointed good works to be done by his people and in his word he has declared what they are he would have done; and it is his will not only that they should do them, but continue to do them; not only that they should do a single act or more, but walk in them; their conversation and course of life should be one continued series of good works; but the intention is not that they should be saved by them, but that they should walk in them; and this being the pre-ordination of God, as it shows that predestination is not according to good works, since good works are the fruits and effects of it, so likewise that it is no licentious doctrine; seeing it provides for the performance of good works, as well as secures grace and glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:10 He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us: Good works are the result, not the cause, of salvation. God’s Spirit, working through a transformed heart, produces a good life (Gal 5:22-23).