SOAP 08/15/2014; Jeremiah 19:10-11

Today's reading: Jeremiah 18, 19, 20; Psalm 93; John 17

S) "¹⁰ Then you are to break the jar in the sight of the men who accompany you ¹¹ and say to them, 'Thus says the Lord of hosts, "Just so will I break this people and this city, even as one breaks a potter’s vessel, which cannot again be repaired; and they will bury in Topheth because there is no other place for burial."'"

Jeremiah 19:10-11 (NASB)

O) Immediately, upon reading this verse, I was reminded of 2 Corinthians 4:7-10, but it was a reminder in contrast. While the verse in the NT is one of encouragement, to show that we can endure anything through Jesus, despite the fragility of a potter's jar, the above verses are a reminder that, apart from the LORD, destruction is inevitable. There is also a lot of symbolism in the object of the earthen vessel. When you read the previous verses, it becomes clear that the jar is not simply representing the people, but it must simultaneously be considered that it was formed by the LORD of hosts. Furthermore, there is precedent in the phrase, "as one breaks a potter's vessel," because that was not done as an accident, but a purposeful action. If you refer back to Leviticus 15:12, you'll find that the main reason for intentionally smashing a clay pot, was because it had become defiled - and there was no remedy once that happened.

A) Very much as I wrote about Lev. 15:12, my response here is one of humble thanks, that I don't have to be smashed! Through Jesus, my defiled and impure earthly (earthen) vessel can be redeemed and supernaturally cleansed, and does not have to be destroyed. Just as important, is to remember that God's holiness cannot be compromised. I should have reverent fear of the LORD, who must ultimately destroy anything that is unholy.

P) Father, Your holiness stands in stark contrast to my broken, defiled, and sinful flesh - my earthen vessel. Thank You for redeeming me, and purifying me by the blood-sacrifice of Your Son, so that I do not have to be destroyed in Your righteous judgment. Only You can repair the brokenness in my life. Thank You for that repair, that redemption, that restoration. Remind me that You are a holy God, calling me into that same holiness, by Jesus Christ. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.