God’s Genius Work

There is a beautiful word in Greek that is used only TWICE in the entire New Covenant Scriptures. It is the word poema, from which we derive the word “poem.”  It can be translated as “workmanship, artistry, craftsmanship, creation, creativity…”

It is somewhat parallel to the Hebraic concept of  m’lechet makhshevet, which means “well-thought out workmanship” – referring to the craftsmanship of the great artist Bezalel in building the Tabernacle ornaments (Exodus 35:33, cf. Ephesians 2:21, II Kings 16:10).

Stunning Beauty

The first use of poema is referring to physical creation.“The invisible character of God, His power and divinity, are clearly seen and understood from the time of creation, through the things that were created …” (Romans 1:20)

In this verse “the things that were created” are poema. The creativity of the Creator is seen in His creation.  The heart of any artist is seen in his artwork. The stunning beauty of natural creation is the poem of God. It is His song.

God’s Genius Work in Changing Us

The second use of poema is referring to God’s genius work in changing us from rebellious and lustful sinners into vessels of grace and glory. Through the creation, God shows His divine power. Through the work of the cross, He shows His astonishing love. We are the ultimate artistry of God’s genius. “For we are His workmanship, created in Messiah Yeshua for good works, which God prepared beforehand …” (Ephesian 2:10)

If we will submit to God’s work in our lives, He will transform us into a beautiful piece of artwork. As the physical creation was “good” and the creation of man was “very good,” so will the new creation of God in our hearts be “excellent.” In fact, it will be awesome. Together we will be more beautiful than the priestly garments of the tabernacle, and more glorious than a shining rainbow. As we follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, we will become God’s song, His “poem.” We are the picture that God is painting.