Becoming A Vessel Of Honor

In 2 Timothy 2:15-26, Paul uses the analogy of a vessel. This analogy harkens back to that of Jeremiah 18:1-6. In this passage, the Apostle explains how we can be what God expects us to be. To do this, he first points out the...

I. Material In The Church.
Paul begins by saying, "In a great house" (20). This is a reference to the Church (1 Timothy 3:15). He makes the point that there are different qualities of vessels in the Church. Some of these vessels are of honor and some of dishonor. Those Christians who are typical of the vessels of dishonor do serious harm to the Church. Yet, those who are considered vessels of honor are a credit (Matthew 5:16). Are we stuck in one category or another? No, you can change, but it is a...

II. Matter of Choice.
Notice Paul's choice of words in verse 21. "If anyone cleanses himself from the latter." This indicates that each individual must accept personal responsibility. The word "If" may be a small word, but it has a huge meaning. "If" shows that something is conditional. In this case, it means we have a choice to be either a vessel of honor or of dishonor. Again, notice that Paul speaks of how one "cleanses himself." Obviously, we do play a role in our own salvation. It is not enough to say God saves us. He does, but that does not mean we don't have any responsibility to God as well. When one says "I'm saved by grace, and I don't have to do anything," it is lazy grace. This "lazy grace" is not going to save anyone. Then Paul said, "He will be a vessel of honor." This is a very special kind of vessel. This can be you! The vessel of honor is "Sanctified" (2 Timothy 1:9). It is "Useful for the Master" (2 Timothy 4:11). It is "Prepared for every good work" (Titus 1:16). So then, how can one choose to be a vessel of honor?

III. Moving Toward Christ.
First, one can move toward Christ by being diligent in the study of God's Word (2 Timothy 2:15). Second, becoming a vessel of honor includes shunning profane and idle babblings (16). Third, departing from sin is imperative (19). Fourth, one can be what God wants him to be by fleeing youthful lusts (22). Fifth, one must avoid foolishness (23,24). Finally, we should keep a proper attitude as we do all we can do to correct those who are in sin (25,26). May we all be vessels of honor!