Why We Are Clay Jars

Christians are like clay jars—vulnerable beings with physical and emotional weaknesses, made from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7).(1) 

But we carry within us great treasure: the Spirit of God.

2 Corinthians 4:7-9:

"We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." NIV

"We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure." NLT

Because of the "treasure within," we can be hard pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down, but NOT crushed, in despair, abandoned, or destroyed!

God's Spirit within us:

1. Teaches us right and wrong and helps us turn from sin (Ephesians 5:8-16; Romans 8:12-13).

2. Empowers us to share Christ (Acts 1:8).

3. Assures us of God's love and helps us love others (Romans 5:5; Philippians 2:1-4).

4. Prepares us for spiritual attack (Ephesians 6:10-18). 

5. Produces godly character (Galatians 5:22-23).

God's Spirit uses fragile, imperfect human beings to fulfill His treasured purposes (2 Timothy 2:20-21; Ephesians 2:10).(2)  

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(1) Genesis 2:7 says, "Then the LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being."

In ancient times, rich people sometimes kept their treasures in simple clay jars. Paul probably thought of this when using this metaphor.

(2) 2 Timothy 2:20-21: "In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work." 

Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

See also: Philippians 2:12-13.

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