Ep 35 Potter and Clay, Ro 9:19-21

In the middle of an explanation about why so many Jews were rejecting the gospel Paul echoes one of the deepest questions that comes out of the human heart: "God, why did You make me like this?" For some reason most of us are displeased with what we see when we look at ourselves. This is true whether we're focusing on our physical appearance, our intelligence, our career path or even our spiritual gifting and call to serve Him. Something perverse in us always wishes we were like someone else. We consider what they do to be a great success but what we do to have little meaning or to be altogether a failure. We initially blame ourselves for this and set about to try harder, but as time passes, we discover there's a deeper root to the problem. We discover God has made us certain ways, and the more we struggle to change, the more apparent that truth becomes. I'm forced to admit I've been made a certain way, and there's no escaping it. And that's when Paul's words in these verses become so healing. He stops us in our tracks and asks, "...who are you, 0 man, who answers back to God... does not the Potter have the right over the clay to make... one vessel for honor and another for common use?" His words heal us because they go right to the root of the problem. It's only after we finally submit to the Potter that we find joy and become an honored vessel. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's book Understanding Romans, email us at [email protected] and ask for your copy at no charge. The book has all the notes from each sermon in this series. Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge. And if you would like to receive a copy of Pastor Steve's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Revelation at no charge, we are still giving this book out as well!