“In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some for noble purposes and some for ignoble.”
2 Timothy 2:20
Paul depicts us as vessels for use in God’s great house, some for common use and some for more noble use. The larger context of Paul’s words has to do with us fleeing youthful passions (see v. 22). Specifically, he says that some of us are like vessels of wood and clay, by nature for common use. Others are like fine china, set apart for the best of occasions. How thankful I am that Paul finesses the imagery, implying that what is ignoble can be cleansed, like a dirty dish made clean and thus fit for the finest parties.
God sanctifies and cleanses His people as we turn away from sin and live in His forgiveness. When sin coats us and remains on us, our service to the Lord is hindered.
At my house I have a reputation as the fastest dishwasher, though sometimes in my haste I miss food, and a dish needs more work. Take a moment to consider that the gospel cleanses us like a dish wiped clean. Ask God to do His sanctifying work in you, so that you might be “set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house for every good work” (v. 21).
God sanctifies and cleanses His people as we turn away from sin and live in His forgiveness. When sin coats us and remains on us, our service to the Lord is hindered.
At my house I have a reputation as the fastest dishwasher, though sometimes in my haste I miss food, and a dish needs more work. Take a moment to consider that the gospel cleanses us like a dish wiped clean. Ask God to do His sanctifying work in you, so that you might be “set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house for every good work” (v. 21).
Scripture Focus
2 Timothy 2:20-21
Insight
Thank You, Jesus, for cleansing us and securing our forgiveness so that we might be holy vessels in Your house. In Your name, Amen.
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 5-6
- Psalm 106
- Romans 3-4
