Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
Text: Ephesians 2:10
APPRECIATING PAUL’S EMPHASIS ON GOOD WORKS
The plans of God are always profoundly deep. It should come as no surprise to learn that God in His “workmanship” has fitted us “for good works” (“ergois agathois”). How may we understand this concept of “good works”?
In earlier centuries, some compared the epistle of James with the epistles of Paul. These had great difficulties with James’ emphasis on works (Cf. James 2). There really is no discrepancy at all. Paul emphasized “good works” as much as James did.
THE DEEP PLANS OF GOD
The more we read about God’s plans from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, the more we appreciate that His plans are deep and profound. Let’s take time to review some of the significant statements made concerning God’s plans.
1. Our being chosen
This was described as “before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4).
2. Our adoption as sons
This was already “predestined” (Ephesians 1:5).
3. Our doing good works
God had this idea “prepared beforehand” (Ephesians 2:10)
GOOD WORKS- AS A WAY OF LIFE
The word “walk” is used most effectively to convey a number of ideas. Two may be highlighted:-
1. It is used to describe “a distinctive way of life”.
2. It is used to distinguish between action and mere thought.
The distinctive faith in the Lord Jesus Christ should cause us to live a distinctively Christian life that is marked by “good works”. The performing of good works in life fulfils God’s profound plan.
STRONG OLD TESTAMENT EMPHASIS
The concept of doing “good works” was also very strongly emphasized in the Old Testament. The following text from the book of Micah illustrates this emphasis.
“He has shown you, O man, what is good;
And what does the LORD require of you
But to do justly, to love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God?”
MICAH 6:8
Every genuine and conscientious believer should seek to maintain good works as his lifestyle.