### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **poíēma**, represented by `{{G4161}}`, denotes a **product** or **workmanship**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term comes from the word ποιέω and refers to a fabric or something that has been made, whether literally or figuratively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical uses, `{{G4161}}` describes two distinct but related concepts of God's creative work. In Romans, it refers to the physical universe as "the **things that are made**," which serve as clear evidence of God's eternal power and Godhead, leaving humanity without excuse [[Romans 1:20]]. In Ephesians, the term is used figuratively to describe believers as God's **workmanship**, created in Christ Jesus for the purpose of performing good works that God has already prepared [[Ephesians 2:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide deeper context for the meaning of `{{G4161}}`:
* `{{G2936}}` **ktízō** (create, Creator, make): This verb, meaning to fabricate or form originally, is the direct action that produces the **workmanship** `{{G4161}}`. Believers are specifically described as being **created** in Christ Jesus [[Ephesians 2:10]].
* `{{G2041}}` **érgon** (deed, doing, labour, work): This word defines the purpose for which the **workmanship** `{{G4161}}` is made. Believers are created unto good **works**, which God has ordained for them to do [[Ephesians 2:10]].
* `{{G2937}}` **ktísis** (building, creation, creature, ordinance): This term is used for the **creation** of the world in [[Romans 1:20]], providing the context for understanding "the **things that are made**" `{{G4161}}`. It speaks to the original formation of the world which reveals God's nature.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4161}}` is significant in understanding God's relationship with creation and believers.
* **General Revelation:** The "things that are made" `{{G4161}}` function as a visible testimony to God's invisible attributes. The creation itself makes His eternal power and Godhead "clearly seen" `{{G2529}}`, rendering mankind "without excuse" `{{G379}}` [[Romans 1:20]].
* **Spiritual Re-creation:** Believers are presented as a masterpiece, God's personal **workmanship** `{{G4161}}`. This isn't just a natural creation but a spiritual one, accomplished "in" `{{G1722}}` Christ Jesus [[Ephesians 2:10]].
* **Purposeful Design:** The status of being God's **workmanship** `{{G4161}}` is linked to a divine purpose. We are created "unto" `{{G1909}}` good works, which God has "before ordained" `{{G4282}}` for us to "walk" `{{G4043}}` in, showing that our new life has a predetermined, righteous path [[Ephesians 2:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4161}}` is a rich term signifying a divinely crafted product. It applies both to the vastness of the physical creation which points back to its Creator, and to the individual believer who has been spiritually re-made in Christ. In both cases, the **workmanship** is not an accident but a deliberate fabrication with an intended purpose.
TRV