You were created to do good works
In Part 2 we saw that that each believer is God’s work of art, or even you could say God’s masterpiece.
Today: We explore what it means that we were created in Christ Jesus to do good works
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do
Good works are not to gain salvation, which would place confidence in ourselves. Good works are to follow salvation so that they too are a fruit of God’s good work in our lives. The new life does not only provide a faith to believe in Christ for salvation but a faith to live out God’s plan for our lives.
It is here that we see the glorious power in the faith that He has given to us. Paul’s argument is straightforward. If we are saved, then we are saved to live out good works such as Christ would do. Paul is expanding the notion of what it means to be raised up together with Christ. Christ lives through our lives in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Good works prepared for us
John 13:14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. First thing to note is Jesus gave us the perfect example of the good works we are called to do. This scripture is talking about refreshing one another on the dusty road of life.
Following Jesus example there are many good works prepared for us, sharing the good news, praying for the sick, giving to the poor, listening to someone’s troubles etc. etc. It is when we are doing such good works that we display the fruit of the spirit [1], love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control. This is the good fruit Jesus want us to display.
Please note we need to embrace these good works although God has prepared them for us.
Ask the Lord what good works he has prepared for you today?
Prayer Lord, we thank you that you have created us to be unique, your work of art, your masterpiece and for a specific purpose, that we might do the good works such as Jesus did. Lord show each one of us what good work you have prepared for me/us to do today and indeed every day. Amen
[1] Galatians 5:22-23
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