2 Timothy 2:20
Verse
Context
The Lord’s Approved Workman
19Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.”20A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use. 21So if anyone cleanses himself of what is unfit, he will be a vessel for honor: sanctified, useful to the Master, and prepared for every good work.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But in a great house - Here the apostle carries on the allusion introduced in the preceding verse. As the foundation of God refers to God's building, i.e. the whole system of Christianity, so here the great house is to be understood of the same; and the different kinds of vessels mean the different teachers, as well as the different kinds of members. In this sacred house at Ephesus there were vessels of gold and silver - eminent, holy, sincere, and useful teachers and members, and also vessels of wood and of earth - false and heretical teachers, such as Hymeneus and Philetus, and their followers. There are also in such houses vessels employed, some in a more honorable, others in a less honorable, office. To these he seems also to compare the same persons.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
in a great house--that is, the visible professing Christian Church (Ti1 3:15). Paul is speaking, not of those without, but of the [visible] family of God [CALVIN]. So the parable of the sweep-net (Mat 13:47-49) gathering together of every kind, good and bad: as the good and bad cannot be distinguished while under the waves, but only when brought to shore, so believers and unbelievers continue in the same Church, until the judgment makes the everlasting distinction. "The ark of Noah is a type of the Church; as in the former there were together the leopard and the kid, the wolf and the lamb; so in the latter, the righteous and sinners, vessels of gold and silver, with vessels of wood and earth" [JEROME, Dialogue against the Luciferians, 302] (compare Mat 20:16). vessels of gold . . . silver--precious and able to endure fire. of wood and earth--worthless, fragile, and soon burnt (Co1 3:12-15; Co1 15:47). some . . . some--the former . . . the latter. to dishonour-- (Pro 16:4; Rom 9:17-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But in a great house,.... This simile the apostle makes use of, to show that it need not seem strange, nor should it be distressing to anyone's mind, to hear that men of such wicked principles and practices should be in the church of God, who are before mentioned; since in every great house or palace, the house of a nobleman, or palace of a king, there is a variety of vessels of different matter, and for different uses, and some are mean, despicable, and dishonourable; and so it is in the church of God: for by this great house, in the application of the simile, is not meant the world, as some think; for though that is a house built by God, who built all things; and is a very large one, and full of inhabitants, comparable to vessels; and there are in it both good and bad, as always have been; yet it is no startling thing to any man, that there should be bad men in it; rather the wonder is, that there should be any good; but by this house is meant the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of truth, Ti1 3:15; see Gill on Ti1 3:15. There are not only vessels of gold and of silver; persons who are members of the visible church, who are comparable to gold and silver, for their worth and value, and preciousness in the sight of Christ, who accounts them his jewels, and peculiar treasure; and for their excellency and usefulness in the church, by reason of those differing gifts bestowed upon them; and for their lustre and purity, both of doctrine and of life; and for their solidity and duration: but also of wood, and of earth: there are others in a visible church state, who are like to dry wood, destitute of the grace of God, and are fit matter for Satan to work upon, and by them raise and increase the flames of contention and division, and will be fit fuel for everlasting burnings; and there are others who are sensual, and carnal, and worldly, who mind earth, and earthly things, and have no spirituality, nor spiritual mindedness in them: and some to honour; who are designed for honourable service, and behave honourably, and are worthy of honour in the church; are honourable officers, or members in it; and are to the honour of Christ, and the Gospel; and shall at last enjoy honour, glory, immortality, and eternal life. And some to dishonour; who are to the disreputation of the church, the dishonour of religion, and scandal of the Gospel; by them God is dishonoured, his ways evil spoken of, his doctrines blasphemed, and his name reproached; and who are themselves dishonourable among men now, and will be covered with shame and everlasting contempt hereafter.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:20-21 Building on 2:19, Paul uses imagery about the utensils in a wealthy home (see Rom 9:21). Within God’s household one should endeavor to be like a utensil that is cherished rather than one that is treated with contempt.
2 Timothy 2:20
The Lord’s Approved Workman
19Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.”20A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use. 21So if anyone cleanses himself of what is unfit, he will be a vessel for honor: sanctified, useful to the Master, and prepared for every good work.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Waiting on God (With Lessons From A. B. Simpson’s Testimony)
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.6K27:27Waiting On God2TI 2:20In this sermon, Dr. Simpson shares his experience of preaching and divine healing. He emphasizes that his sermons were not his own, but were given to him by Jesus Christ. He also discusses the importance of relying on God for healing and not relying on human plans or efforts. Dr. Simpson contrasts his approach to preaching with the common practice of trying to keep the audience entertained and highlights the need to abide in the presence of God.
Do You Love Me?
By J.C. Ryle2MAT 2:11MAT 7:24JHN 14:22CO 5:12TI 2:20The preacher delves into the significance of 'oikia' (house) in the Bible, highlighting its various meanings such as one's residence, the place of Jesus' birth, and a figure of speech for the human body. 'Oikia' is used to describe the believer's future home in our Father's house and the Church as the body of Christ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of cleansing oneself to become a vessel for honor, separating from false teachings and defilement to be useful for God's purposes.
Seek to Be a Vessel, Sanctified and Useful for God
By Zac Poonen0MAL 3:17MAT 12:342TI 2:202TI 2:221JN 1:7Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of being a holy vessel for God, highlighting the dual aspect of cleansing in the New Testament: God's cleansing of our sins through Jesus' blood and our responsibility to cleanse ourselves from wrong habits and behaviors. Poonen urges believers to daily cleanse themselves, seeking to be vessels sanctified and useful to God, focusing on spiritual value over mere usefulness in God's work. He warns against youthful lusts and encourages pursuing righteousness and fellowship with those who seek purity to avoid sin and grow in holiness.
Vessels Unto Honour
By Thomas Cook0ISA 6:8JHN 15:21TH 5:232TI 2:20JAS 1:4Thomas Cook preaches about the distinction between two orders of Christians - those who live a harmless life but do not actively promote Christ's Kingdom, and those who are zealous for good works and strive to emulate Christ. He emphasizes the importance of being vessels unto honor in the Church of Christ, sanctified and prepared for the Master's use. Cook delves into the characteristics of being sanctified, meeting for the Master's use, and prepared for every good work, highlighting the necessity of personal holiness, fitness for God's service, and readiness for various forms of service.
Grace Must Change Us
By C.H. Spurgeon0Endurance in FaithTransformation by Grace2TI 2:20C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that grace must transform us into valuable vessels for God's use, comparing us to silver and gold that withstands trials, unlike wooden or earthen vessels that are easily damaged or broken. He warns that nominal Christians are susceptible to being led astray by false teachings, which can ruin their character and faith. Spurgeon reflects on the sad reality of those who once appeared strong but succumbed to temptation, becoming like broken pots outside the house of Christ. The sermon calls for a deep, transformative grace that equips believers to endure challenges and serve honorably in the church.
2 Timothy 2:20, 21
By St. John Chrysostom0ISA 1:16MAT 7:21LUK 6:36EPH 5:271TI 4:122TI 2:202TI 2:23John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of purging oneself from dishonorable behaviors to become vessels of honor, sanctified for the Master's use. He explains that in a great house, there are vessels of different materials, symbolizing the diversity of people in the world, some for honor and some for dishonor. Chrysostom emphasizes the need for individuals to cleanse themselves from sinful behaviors and choose to be vessels of honor through their own decisions. He also highlights the significance of fleeing youthful lusts, following righteousness, faith, charity, and peace, and avoiding foolish and unlearned questions that lead to strife.
Will You Miss the Coming Revival?
By David Smithers01SA 15:171KI 1:51KI 3:72CH 7:14PSA 51:16ISA 57:152TI 2:20JAS 4:6David Smithers preaches about the anticipation of a mighty move of God, emphasizing the need for the Church to be empowered and purified for Christ's sake and service in preparation for a true revival, which is a miraculous manifestation of the presence of Jesus Christ on earth. He warns against pride and the danger of missing the day of visitation through negligence, highlighting the importance of diligent heart preparation through brokenhearted humility. Drawing lessons from King Saul and King David's transitions, he stresses the necessity of humility and fervent prayer as the key qualifications for experiencing a Kingdom revival.
How to Be Filled With the Holy Spirit
By Eli Brayley0PSA 40:1PSA 66:18LUK 4:18LUK 11:9ACT 1:8ACT 2:39ROM 12:12TI 2:20HEB 11:6JAS 4:31JN 3:22Eli Brayley preaches on the importance of being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the simplicity of asking God for this blessing. He highlights that many are not filled because they do not ask, are filled with pride, or lack faith in God's promises. Brayley explains the conditions that hinder individuals from receiving the Holy Spirit, including unbelief, selfish intentions, an unsurrendered life, hidden sin, and giving up too soon, stressing the need for genuine faith, surrender, and perseverance in seeking God's power.
Hezekiah Opens the Temple
By C.I. Scofield02CH 29:18JHN 13:41TI 1:122TI 2:20HEB 10:121JN 1:9C.I. Scofield preaches on the importance of thorough spiritual cleansing and restoration to God, using the example of the cleansing of vessels in 2 Chronicles 29:18-31. The sermon emphasizes the need for deep searching of the heart, genuine confession, and separation from dishonorable practices to become vessels fit for God's use. It highlights the significance of acknowledging the eternal sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the resulting praise, worship, and readiness for service that follows a truly restored heart.
The Influence of One Man
By Zac Poonen01SA 16:7PSA 24:3PRO 25:4ISA 6:8EZK 22:301CO 1:272CO 7:12TI 2:20JAS 4:8Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of being a valuable vessel to God, highlighting that God seeks individuals who have been tested and proven through trials for vital tasks. He explains that God does not use people like disposable matchsticks but values those who seek His will and glory wholeheartedly. Poonen stresses the need for believers to constantly cleanse themselves from anything unlike Christ to be useful vessels for God's work, as God depends greatly on those who are sanctified and seek His purposes.
Consecration
By Eli Brayley0EXO 35:22JOB 1:8ROM 12:11CO 6:191CO 10:212TI 2:20Eli Brayley preaches on the importance of consecration, emphasizing that as Christians, without consecration to the Lord, we will achieve very little for Heaven. The key to all spiritual success lies in consecration, which involves dedication, separation, and ultimately consecration to God. Through dedication, believers willingly offer themselves to the Lord for His service, without the intention of serving the world. Separation is crucial as Christians must separate themselves from worldly contaminations to be effective vessels for God's use. Consecration allows the Holy Spirit to flow through believers unhindered, enabling them to be fully used by God.
Love of the World
By Charles Finney0GEN 2:7ISA 30:14ISA 42:81CO 1:262CO 4:72CO 4:101TI 6:202TI 2:20The preacher delves into the metaphorical use of 'ostrakinos' in the Bible, describing it as fragile or lowly, emphasizing the contrast between the valuable treasure within and the commonness of the vessel. This metaphor signifies that human weakness does not hinder the divine intention when supported by God's power. The sermon highlights the concept of believers being like earthen vessels, emphasizing the need for humility and readiness for honorable service. Various biblical figures and authors are referenced to illustrate the significance of being 'jars of clay' in God's hands.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But in a great house - Here the apostle carries on the allusion introduced in the preceding verse. As the foundation of God refers to God's building, i.e. the whole system of Christianity, so here the great house is to be understood of the same; and the different kinds of vessels mean the different teachers, as well as the different kinds of members. In this sacred house at Ephesus there were vessels of gold and silver - eminent, holy, sincere, and useful teachers and members, and also vessels of wood and of earth - false and heretical teachers, such as Hymeneus and Philetus, and their followers. There are also in such houses vessels employed, some in a more honorable, others in a less honorable, office. To these he seems also to compare the same persons.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
in a great house--that is, the visible professing Christian Church (Ti1 3:15). Paul is speaking, not of those without, but of the [visible] family of God [CALVIN]. So the parable of the sweep-net (Mat 13:47-49) gathering together of every kind, good and bad: as the good and bad cannot be distinguished while under the waves, but only when brought to shore, so believers and unbelievers continue in the same Church, until the judgment makes the everlasting distinction. "The ark of Noah is a type of the Church; as in the former there were together the leopard and the kid, the wolf and the lamb; so in the latter, the righteous and sinners, vessels of gold and silver, with vessels of wood and earth" [JEROME, Dialogue against the Luciferians, 302] (compare Mat 20:16). vessels of gold . . . silver--precious and able to endure fire. of wood and earth--worthless, fragile, and soon burnt (Co1 3:12-15; Co1 15:47). some . . . some--the former . . . the latter. to dishonour-- (Pro 16:4; Rom 9:17-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But in a great house,.... This simile the apostle makes use of, to show that it need not seem strange, nor should it be distressing to anyone's mind, to hear that men of such wicked principles and practices should be in the church of God, who are before mentioned; since in every great house or palace, the house of a nobleman, or palace of a king, there is a variety of vessels of different matter, and for different uses, and some are mean, despicable, and dishonourable; and so it is in the church of God: for by this great house, in the application of the simile, is not meant the world, as some think; for though that is a house built by God, who built all things; and is a very large one, and full of inhabitants, comparable to vessels; and there are in it both good and bad, as always have been; yet it is no startling thing to any man, that there should be bad men in it; rather the wonder is, that there should be any good; but by this house is meant the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of truth, Ti1 3:15; see Gill on Ti1 3:15. There are not only vessels of gold and of silver; persons who are members of the visible church, who are comparable to gold and silver, for their worth and value, and preciousness in the sight of Christ, who accounts them his jewels, and peculiar treasure; and for their excellency and usefulness in the church, by reason of those differing gifts bestowed upon them; and for their lustre and purity, both of doctrine and of life; and for their solidity and duration: but also of wood, and of earth: there are others in a visible church state, who are like to dry wood, destitute of the grace of God, and are fit matter for Satan to work upon, and by them raise and increase the flames of contention and division, and will be fit fuel for everlasting burnings; and there are others who are sensual, and carnal, and worldly, who mind earth, and earthly things, and have no spirituality, nor spiritual mindedness in them: and some to honour; who are designed for honourable service, and behave honourably, and are worthy of honour in the church; are honourable officers, or members in it; and are to the honour of Christ, and the Gospel; and shall at last enjoy honour, glory, immortality, and eternal life. And some to dishonour; who are to the disreputation of the church, the dishonour of religion, and scandal of the Gospel; by them God is dishonoured, his ways evil spoken of, his doctrines blasphemed, and his name reproached; and who are themselves dishonourable among men now, and will be covered with shame and everlasting contempt hereafter.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:20-21 Building on 2:19, Paul uses imagery about the utensils in a wealthy home (see Rom 9:21). Within God’s household one should endeavor to be like a utensil that is cherished rather than one that is treated with contempt.