For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Workmanship, х poieema (G4161)] - 'a thing of His making,' 'handiwork.' Here the spiritual creation, not the physical, is referred to (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Created - having been created (Psalms 102:18; Isaiah 43:21; 2 Corinthians 5:5; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:24),
Unto, х epi (G1909) ergois (G2041)] - 'for good works.' "Good works" cannot be performed until we are new 'created unto' or for them. Paul never calls the works of the law "good works." We are not saved by, but created for, good works.
Before ordained, х proeetoimasen (G4282)] - 'before made ready' (cf. John 5:36). God marks out for each in His purposes beforehand the particular good works, the time, and way, which He sees best. God both makes ready by His providence the opportunities for the works, and makes us ready for their performance (John 15:16; 2 Timothy 2:21).
That we should walk in them - not 'be saved' by them. Works do not justify, but the justified man works (Galatians 5:22-25).