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Pottery in the Bible (Endnotes)

1. Most of the modern versions miss the custom and ignore the fact that the Hebrew text has the plural “wheels.” Close

2. Many of the modern versions translate the custom right out of the text, and have “breaking in” or some similar translation, instead of “digging through” which is the accurate translation of the Hebrew text. Close

3. In 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NIV) it says, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” The context shows that the “treasure” is the knowledge we have of God and His glory that was revealed by Christ. Close

4. The potter teaches another lesson, one that Mackie does not mention and one that modern theology usually does not mention either—the part the clay plays. It is common to hear Christian preachers say that the potter can do whatever he wants with the clay. However, the clay also has a part to play—it has to be willing to be worked with. Every potter knows this. It often occurs that a potter does his best to produce a quality product, but the clay seems to have a mind of its own and does not cooperate. Either it will not hold the shape the potter is attempting, or it cracks or breaks in drying or firing, or it will not take a glaze, etc.. The potter does his best, but the clay is uncooperative.

Jeremiah 18:1-10 describes a potter trying to make a pot, but the clay was “marred” in his hands (v. 4). It would not do what he wanted, so he had to do something different. God was showing Jeremiah, via the potter, that there are times when God has a purpose for a person or people but, because of the way they respond to Him, He has to do something different. God mentioned that there are times He announces evil for a nation but they repent and so He has to change (vv. 7 and 8), and there are other times when He plans good for a nation, but they are evil and disobedient so He cannot do the good that He purposed to do. God designs each of us with specific abilities and ways that we can serve Him. However, if we are unwilling, He cannot fulfill His purposes. 2 Timothy 2:21 encourages us to do our part to be honorable vessels, sanctified and adequate for the Master’s use, prepared to do good works.

God designs each of us with specific abilities and ways that we can serve Him. However, if we are unwilling, He cannot fulfill His purposes. 2 Timothy 2:21 encourages us to do our part to be honorable vessels, sanctified and adequate for the Master’s use, prepared to do good works. Close