Romans 9:20
Verse
Context
God’s Sovereign Choice
19One of you will say to me, “Then why does God still find fault? For who can resist His will?” 20But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to Him who formed it, “Why did You make me like this?”21Does not the potter have the right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use?
Sermons
Compilations
Chuck Smith
Willie Mullan
Jeff Noblit
Norman GrubbSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Nay but, O man, who art thou - As if he had said: Weak, ignorant man, darest thou retort on the infinitely good and righteous God? Reflect on thyself; and tell me, after thou hast abused the grace of God, and transgressed his laws, wilt thou cavil at his dispensations? God hath made, created, formed the Jewish nation; and shall the thing formed, when it hath corrupted itself, pretend to correct the wise and gracious Author of its being, and say, Why hast thou made me thus? Why hast thou constituted me in this manner? Thou hast done me wrong in giving me my being under such and such conditions. Old John Goodwin's note on this passage is at least curious: "I scarce (says he) know any passage of the Scripture more frequently abused than this. When men, in the great questions of predestination and reprobation, bring forth any text of Scripture which they conceive makes for their notion, though the sense which they put upon it be ever so uncouth and dissonant from the true meaning of the Holy Ghost, yet, if any man contradict, they frequently fall upon him with - Nay but, O man; who art thou? As if St. Paul had left them his heirs and successors in the infallibility of his spirit! But when men shall call a solid answer to their groundless conceits about the meaning of the Scriptures, a replying against God, it savours more of the spirit who was seen falling like lightning from heaven, than of His, who saw him in this his fall."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made--"didst thou make" me thus?-- (Isa 45:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Hath not the potter power over the clay,.... By the power the potter has over the clay, to shape it in what form he pleases, and out of it to make what vessels he pleases, and for what purposes he thinks fit, which will be most to his own advantage, the apostle expresses the sovereign and unlimited powder which God has over his creatures; the passages referred to, are Isa 64:8, in which God is represented as the potter, and men as clay in his hands; now if the potter has such power over the clay which he did not make, only has made a purchase of, or has it in his possession, much more has God a power, who has created the clay, to appoint out of it persons to different uses and purposes, for his own glory, as he sees fit; even of the same lump, to make one vessel to honour, and another to dishonour. The apostle seems to design hereby, to point out to us the object of predestination to be man, as yet not made, but as lying in the mere mass of creatureship, signified by the unformed clay, before put into any shape; and is an allusion to the first creation of man, out of the clay, or dust of the earth, Gen 2:7; for such a consideration of man best agrees with the clay, lump, or mass, not yet formed, than as already made, and much less as fallen and corrupted: for if men, in predestination, were considered in the corrupt mass, or as fallen creatures, they could not be so well said to be made out of it, both to honour and dishonour; but rather since they were all dishonourable, that some were left in that dishonour, and others removed from it unto honour: besides, if this is not the case, God must create man without an end, which is contrary to the principle of reason and wisdom; the end is the cause, for which a thing is what it is; and it is a known rule, that what is first in intention, is last in execution, and "vice versa": the end is first fixed, and then the means; for God to create man, and then to fix the end of his creation, is to do what no wise potter would do, first make his pots, and then think of the end of making them, and the use they are to be put unto. To make one vessel to honour, and another to dishonour, is for God to appoint creatures, which are to be made out of the same mass and lump, for his own glory; which end, his own glory, he determines to bring about by different means, as these following: with respect to the vessels of honour, whom he appoints for his glory, he determines to create them; to suffer them to fall into sin, whereby they become polluted and guilty; to raise and recover them, by the obedience, sufferings, and death of his Son; to regenerate, renew, and sanctify them, by his Spirit and grace, and to bring them to eternal happiness; and hereby compass the aforesaid end, his own glory, the glorifying of his grace and mercy, in a way consistent with justice and holiness: with respect to the vessels of dishonour, whom he also appoints for the glorifying of himself, he determines to create them out of the same lump; to suffer them to fall into sin; to leave them in their sins, in the pollution and guilt of them, and to condemn them for them; and hereby gain his ultimate end, his own glory, glorifying the perfections of his power, justice, and holiness, without the least blemish to his goodness and mercy: now if a potter has power, for his own advantage and secular interest, to make out of the same clay what vessels he pleases; much more has God a power, out of the same mass and lump of creatureship, to appoint creatures he determines to make to his own glory; which he brings about by different methods, consistent with the perfections of his nature.
Romans 9:20
God’s Sovereign Choice
19One of you will say to me, “Then why does God still find fault? For who can resist His will?” 20But who are you, O man, to talk back to God? Shall what is formed say to Him who formed it, “Why did You make me like this?”21Does not the potter have the right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Damnation of Hell - Part 1 (Compilation)
By Compilations2.5K29:12CompilationPRO 6:16ISA 55:1MAT 12:36LUK 15:10ROM 2:5ROM 9:202PE 2:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the consequences of rejecting God and living a life of sin. He vividly describes the torment and despair that awaits those who die without repentance. The preacher argues that the Bible is filled with statements and doctrines that confirm the dreadful fate of the unrepentant. He also addresses objections to the justice of God's punishment, stating that those who reject God's offer of salvation cannot complain when they face eternal punishment. The sermon emphasizes the urgency of accepting Jesus Christ and warns of the severe judgment that awaits those who remain unbelieving.
Lessons From the Potters House
By Chuck Smith1.8K26:50ISA 64:8ROM 9:20
This sermon focuses on the analogy of God as the potter and us as the clay, emphasizing the importance of yielding to God's shaping and molding in our lives. It highlights how God's sovereign power works through the circumstances, pain, and sorrows in our lives to form us into vessels of honor for His glory. The message encourages surrendering to God's plan, trusting His love, and allowing Him to make something beautiful out of our lives.
Effects of Fall - Problems Arising From the Fall Part 2
By John Murray1.7K48:53Fall Of ManJOB 26:14MAT 22:37ROM 9:20ROM 11:33In this sermon, the preacher explores the question of why God decrees sin. He acknowledges that we cannot fully understand God's reasons for allowing sin, but emphasizes that the ultimate purpose of all things is the glory of God. The preacher discusses the nature of faith and its connection to sin, highlighting that faith is unknowing and lawless in this fallen world. He also addresses the pervasiveness of God's law and how it relates to the subject at hand. The sermon concludes with the reminder to trust in God's sovereignty and to bow in faith before His will.
(Romans) the Explanation of Israel
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:00:45IsraelEXO 32:19EXO 33:17ROM 9:14ROM 9:18ROM 9:20In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing the importance of weeping for souls and challenges the audience's understanding of it. He then moves on to explain the connection between justification by faith and God's dealings with Israel, specifically in Romans chapters 9, 10, and 11. The preacher emphasizes the personal burden that Paul had for Israel and how it relates to God's mercy and purpose. He also references the story of Pharaoh in Exodus to illustrate how God works in people's hearts.
(Colossians) 10 the Spirit Filled Life
By Bob Utley1.4K39:42ColossiansROM 9:20COL 3:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making choices that align with God's kingdom rather than personal preferences. He highlights the need to act on the truths we know and walk in faith, trusting that more truths will be revealed to us. The speaker also addresses the issue of musical preference causing division in churches, expressing disbelief at the extent of this problem in Southern Baptist life. The sermon is based on Colossians 3:12-17, which discusses the importance of living in wisdom and gratitude, and highlights the sovereignty of God.
(Ephesians) Election: Pure and Simple
By Jeff Noblit1.3K1:17:54ElectionROM 8:4ROM 8:29ROM 9:20EPH 1:4EPH 1:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on the Bible for evangelism. He argues that Christians need to provide creative supporting evidence to win over the current generation. However, he disagrees with the idea of using worldly methods, such as rock music or dramatic presentations, to attract people to the gospel. Instead, he believes that Christians should focus on filling themselves with the word of God and confronting the culture with love and clarity. The preacher also addresses the issue of denial regarding God's sovereign electing choice, emphasizing the biblical truth that God predestines and chooses those whom He foreknows.
Romans, 1978 - Part 4
By Norman Grubb1.0K1:24:58RomansROM 8:29ROM 9:15ROM 9:18ROM 9:20ROM 10:14ROM 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the word of God and the gifts that God bestows upon believers. They highlight the role of teachers in conveying the word of God and the need for belief and hearing in order to have faith. The speaker also discusses predestination and the mercy of God in choosing believers. They conclude by expressing gratitude for the ability to interpret and share the living word of God and the ultimate purpose of liberation through God's glory.
He Commanded and They Were Created
By John Piper0GEN 1:1PSA 24:1PSA 104:29PSA 148:5ISA 46:10MAT 11:28ROM 9:20ROM 11:36ROM 15:42CO 1:20COL 1:15HEB 1:3John Piper preaches on the series of messages that will take the congregation from the creation of the world through God's dealings with Israel to the incarnation of God's Son, emphasizing the importance of knowing the God of creation and redemptive history for the advancement and joy of faith. He highlights that authentic love, adoration, and fear of God come in response to glimpses of God's actions and plans, not just by command. Piper stresses the significance of understanding God as the Creator and Sustainer of all things, emphasizing that every moment of our existence is owed to God's word of command.
Of the Church in Its Pure, Declining, and Declined State, and Recovery
By Isaac Penington0DEU 5:29DEU 30:19ISA 61:1ISA 63:7JER 31:20JER 44:4ROM 9:201TI 4:14REV 15:4REV 21:2REV 22:17Isaac Penington preaches about the state of the church in its first pure state, its declining state, its declined state, and its recovery. He emphasizes the importance of faith in receiving the gospel and the need for obedience and righteousness in the new covenant of life. Penington explains that God's grace is freely given to all, but it is the individual's response to the grace that determines its effect in their life, leading to either justification or condemnation.
The Justice of God in the Damnation of Sinners
By Jonathan Edwards0PSA 51:4PSA 110:3ISA 2:22ISA 16:9ROM 3:19ROM 9:20Jonathan Edwards preaches on the doctrine of justification by faith alone, emphasizing the inability of mankind to be justified by the deeds of the law. He highlights the universal sinfulness of both Gentiles and Jews, showing that all are corrupt and guilty before God. Edwards explains that every mouth may be stopped by the law, preventing boasting of righteousness and excuses for sin. He delves into the infinite evil of sin and the heinousness of crimes against an infinitely lovely and honourable God, illustrating the justice of eternal damnation for sinners based on their sinfulness and God's sovereignty.
The Sole Consideration, That God Is God, Sufficient to Still All Objections to His Sovereignty
By Jonathan Edwards0JOB 11:7PSA 46:10ISA 45:6MAT 20:15ROM 9:20Jonathan Edwards preaches on the sovereignty of God, emphasizing the church's reliance on God as their refuge and strength during times of trouble and calamity. The duty to be still before God is highlighted, grounded in the divinity of God, which should be sufficient to silence objections and opposition to His sovereign dispensations. Edwards explains how God's infinite perfection, incomprehensibility, ownership of all things, worthiness of sovereignty, and avenging power all contribute to His right to rule over all creation.
More Than a Calvinist
By John Newton0PSA 139:7PRO 3:5ROM 9:201CO 8:1JAS 4:6John Newton preaches about the importance of humility and self-awareness in understanding spiritual truths revealed in the Scripture. He highlights the tendency for individuals to think highly of themselves and look down on others who oppose their beliefs, emphasizing the need for a deeper realization of the gap between acquired knowledge and practical application in one's life. Newton discusses the challenges of acknowledging God's omnipresence and sovereignty, and how our behavior and prayers often do not reflect a true understanding of His presence. He also delves into the concept of God's appointments being sovereign, wise, and gracious, urging believers to trust in His promises and providence even in the midst of afflictions.
Are You Criticizing God?
By R.A. Torrey0Trust in God's WisdomCriticism of GodISA 55:8ROM 9:20R.A. Torrey emphasizes the folly and wickedness of criticizing God, urging listeners to recognize the vast contrast between God's infinite majesty, holiness, wisdom, and love, and human insignificance. He argues that it is absurd for mere mortals to question or condemn the actions of an all-knowing Creator, especially when they owe their very existence to Him. Torrey highlights that many people, through their complaints and criticisms, are essentially entering into controversy with God, failing to acknowledge His goodness and the blessings they have received. He calls for humility and trust in God's plans, even when they are beyond human understanding, reminding us that every excuse for not accepting God's grace ultimately condemns Him. The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder of our position before God and the need for reverence and faith.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Nay but, O man, who art thou - As if he had said: Weak, ignorant man, darest thou retort on the infinitely good and righteous God? Reflect on thyself; and tell me, after thou hast abused the grace of God, and transgressed his laws, wilt thou cavil at his dispensations? God hath made, created, formed the Jewish nation; and shall the thing formed, when it hath corrupted itself, pretend to correct the wise and gracious Author of its being, and say, Why hast thou made me thus? Why hast thou constituted me in this manner? Thou hast done me wrong in giving me my being under such and such conditions. Old John Goodwin's note on this passage is at least curious: "I scarce (says he) know any passage of the Scripture more frequently abused than this. When men, in the great questions of predestination and reprobation, bring forth any text of Scripture which they conceive makes for their notion, though the sense which they put upon it be ever so uncouth and dissonant from the true meaning of the Holy Ghost, yet, if any man contradict, they frequently fall upon him with - Nay but, O man; who art thou? As if St. Paul had left them his heirs and successors in the infallibility of his spirit! But when men shall call a solid answer to their groundless conceits about the meaning of the Scriptures, a replying against God, it savours more of the spirit who was seen falling like lightning from heaven, than of His, who saw him in this his fall."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made--"didst thou make" me thus?-- (Isa 45:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Hath not the potter power over the clay,.... By the power the potter has over the clay, to shape it in what form he pleases, and out of it to make what vessels he pleases, and for what purposes he thinks fit, which will be most to his own advantage, the apostle expresses the sovereign and unlimited powder which God has over his creatures; the passages referred to, are Isa 64:8, in which God is represented as the potter, and men as clay in his hands; now if the potter has such power over the clay which he did not make, only has made a purchase of, or has it in his possession, much more has God a power, who has created the clay, to appoint out of it persons to different uses and purposes, for his own glory, as he sees fit; even of the same lump, to make one vessel to honour, and another to dishonour. The apostle seems to design hereby, to point out to us the object of predestination to be man, as yet not made, but as lying in the mere mass of creatureship, signified by the unformed clay, before put into any shape; and is an allusion to the first creation of man, out of the clay, or dust of the earth, Gen 2:7; for such a consideration of man best agrees with the clay, lump, or mass, not yet formed, than as already made, and much less as fallen and corrupted: for if men, in predestination, were considered in the corrupt mass, or as fallen creatures, they could not be so well said to be made out of it, both to honour and dishonour; but rather since they were all dishonourable, that some were left in that dishonour, and others removed from it unto honour: besides, if this is not the case, God must create man without an end, which is contrary to the principle of reason and wisdom; the end is the cause, for which a thing is what it is; and it is a known rule, that what is first in intention, is last in execution, and "vice versa": the end is first fixed, and then the means; for God to create man, and then to fix the end of his creation, is to do what no wise potter would do, first make his pots, and then think of the end of making them, and the use they are to be put unto. To make one vessel to honour, and another to dishonour, is for God to appoint creatures, which are to be made out of the same mass and lump, for his own glory; which end, his own glory, he determines to bring about by different means, as these following: with respect to the vessels of honour, whom he appoints for his glory, he determines to create them; to suffer them to fall into sin, whereby they become polluted and guilty; to raise and recover them, by the obedience, sufferings, and death of his Son; to regenerate, renew, and sanctify them, by his Spirit and grace, and to bring them to eternal happiness; and hereby compass the aforesaid end, his own glory, the glorifying of his grace and mercy, in a way consistent with justice and holiness: with respect to the vessels of dishonour, whom he also appoints for the glorifying of himself, he determines to create them out of the same lump; to suffer them to fall into sin; to leave them in their sins, in the pollution and guilt of them, and to condemn them for them; and hereby gain his ultimate end, his own glory, glorifying the perfections of his power, justice, and holiness, without the least blemish to his goodness and mercy: now if a potter has power, for his own advantage and secular interest, to make out of the same clay what vessels he pleases; much more has God a power, out of the same mass and lump of creatureship, to appoint creatures he determines to make to his own glory; which he brings about by different methods, consistent with the perfections of his nature.