May 17, 2015

Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV84 - For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.  10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Ephesians 2:10 NLT - For we are God’s masterpiece.  He has created us anew in Christ Jesus...

In the first half of his letter to the Ephesian Church, the Apostle Paul outlines his Theology of Redemption, and the mysterious role the church has taken in the course of human history.  In the last half of the letter, he demonstrates the practical application of his theological position.  True Christianity is always right theology (what we believe) expressed through a worshipful lifestyle (how we live) that represents the activity of God in the Earth.

Grace is not simply the kindness of God to overlook and forget our sinfulness and transgressions.  Grace is the capacity of God to transform the Sinner, and make him or her the very righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.  Therefore, Christianity is not simply a philosophy, doctrinal adherence, or creedal understanding. Christianity is a personal encounter with the Living God that changes a person’s life for now and eternity.

This is why The Word of God tells us that we are “God’s Workmanship;” that we are His “Masterpiece;” His “Work of Art.”  We are NOT a Cosmic Accident or a Biological Mishap, but we are a marvelous and intentional creation by a loving and personal God.

Psalm 139:13-14 NIV78 - For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.  14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 

This makes us unique, special, and even, wonderful…because someone took the time, care, and energy that were necessary to form, and transform, our lives. Therefore, we are created “to do good works” in order demonstrate the beauty and glory of the Artist who created us, that our lives will show forth the splendor of our Creator and Redeemer.