Grace and its aftermath

Ephesians 2:8-10

⁸For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, ⁹ not a result of works, so that no one may boast. ¹⁰For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

It is grace that saves us. Grace is unmerited favor, and Paul goes on to make sure that this is very clear. It is not our own doing, it is a gift, not the result of works. So no boasting! In fact, our reaction should be just the opposite, humility. Dare I even say, intense humility, brokenness, awe.

We are His workmanship. As a craftsman puts together a fine piece of furniture, God has made us as we are. And just as a craftsman's work has a purpose, so does God's work. We are created to do good labor, in order that we might reflect His glory. Notice that our doing good works comes after our grace. Good works does not give us grace, but it is the result of grace. That is why, if we want to be changed, we must look to God and see His glory and grace.

Goodness, kindness, patience, gentleness, self-control, joy, peace, love, faithfulness. All of these were made ahead of time, that we should walk in them. These are the things we see if we honestly look at God. These are how we should walk in appreciation of and to be a reflection of His grace.

The gospel in 10 verses. Our sin to God's grace to our response. An incredible journey of faith and love.