What Can the Jars of Clay Bible Verse Teach Us Today?
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Jars made of glass, clay, ceramic, or plastic can be filled with items such as water, fruit, soil for plants, coins, mementos, and more. How can we use jars of clay and what can we learn about jars of clay from the Bible?
What Bible Verse Talks about 'Jars of Clay'?
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NIV)
The book of Timothy also shares about clay but doesn’t specifically mention jars of clay.
“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.” (2 Timothy 2:20 NIV)
These verses remind us that vessels or jars had various purposes in daily life. Not only for holding water or other necessary items, but jars of clay symbolize how believers can have the gospel within them and pour it out on others. In biblical times, jars of clay held vital necessities of life, such as water. In Paul’s writings, he reminds the people that clay jars will break, but God’s Word and message will never fail.
In the Old Testament, Isaiah spoke about humans being the clay and God being the potter.
“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (Isaiah 64:8 NIV)
Once again, this Scripture reminds us that God is the creator and we can be molded like clay so we may share His message. Each time we spread the gospel, we share through God’s power and not our ability. God’s Word is offered to all. Some will listen and hear, while others will refuse His message. We are called to share His Word with everyone through the example of our lives.
What 'Treasure in Jars of Clay' Is Paul Talking About?
Easton’s Bible Dictionary defines clay as “sediment found in pits or in streets, of dust mixed with spittle, and of potter’s clay.” Clay was also used as a sealant, possibly to seal tombs.
In Biblical times, a jar was a vessel or clay pot, imperfect and with defects. This description can also be used to note the human body which is not perfect and contains flaws. Although jars of clay were used commonly in Paul’s time, they were fragile and easily broken.
Paul wrote several letters to the Corinthians, using strong words each time. In one letter, Paul defends his authority as an apostle. Most people listened to Paul, while some refused to believe and questioned his authority. Paul believed that believers new to the faith might be easily swayed by false teachers.
In a letter to the people of Corinth, which was written around AD 55 and 57, Paul focused not on the perishable jar (the human body), but on the contents (the power of God within us).
The “treasure in jars of clay” that Paul is referring to is the hope found in God. Paul proclaimed the gospel and reminded the people that Christians are the jars of clay that hold the treasure which is the gospel. The light of the gospel is Paul’s focus.
“So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” (1 Corinthians 3:7 NIV)
Although we face trials and difficulties in life, the way we handle each situation can show others the love of God. Like a clay jar, we may break, but God never fails.
Our bodies may be weak and hurting, yet God can use those difficulties in His way and in His timing to bring people to Him. Due to physical restrictions, we may not be able to participate in activities as we did in the past. Yet, we continue to have ways to share the gospel, although the ways may change.
Why Does Paul Say We Keep the Treasure in Jars of Clay?
The way Paul references keeping the treasure in jars of clay reminds us of the fragility and imperfection of clay and the human body. Each clay jar or vessel was handmade. God is the potter, and we are the clay. God created us.
Jars of clay can remind us of the ways we fall short and sin. Paul tells the people not to lose heart because the ministry comes by God’s mercy (2 Corinthians 4:1). [CS1] Believers knew then and now know that although we fail, there is no need to despair. God’s presence in our lives reminds us of His forgiveness and guidance in all situations.
In his passage about the jars of clay, Paul reminds us that the power belongs to God, not us. Clay jars are temporary vessels as are our bodies. Each of us is uniquely created by God and designed for the purpose He has created for us.
Colossians also reminds us about false teachers. The glory belongs to God, not humans. When we consider actions to take or words to speak, if God is not at the forefront and the glory is not given to Him, then there is falsehood. Living for self instead of God will not bring peace and joy.
“Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind.” (Colossians 2:16-19 NIV)
Paul reminds us that our bodies are temporary, yet God and the light of the gospel are forever. Paul states that there is a way for us to be made new. There is always hope found in Jesus Christ.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Paul does not specify what kind of jar we keep the treasure in, which may remind us that the power of the gospel was not limited to any type or size jar or vessel. As he said in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, there are many members of the body of Christ with different uses.
The fact that clay jars are designed for their contents to be poured out may teach us something else as well. Keeping the treasure in something that stays closed would not allow the contents to pour out. A sealed box might have kept the contents secure, yet no one could enjoy what was inside. We are to share the gospel, not keep it to ourselves.
As the famous Sunday School song reminds us, we should let the light of the gospel shine from us. Letting the light shine even in our broken and fragile bodies witnesses to how God can work through even fragile instruments.
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7 NIV)
Prayer to Reflect On Our Treasure in Jars of Clay
Heavenly Father, Creator of all, we thank You for filling us with Your love, glory, and forgiveness. Thank You for using our bodies which are like jars of clay to further the gospel and bring others closer to You. Even if our bodies and minds are broken in pieces like a clay jar, please guide us to show Your love, compassion, mercy, and forgiveness through words and actions. Father, fill us with wisdom and discernment so Your message shines brightly even in our brokenness and frailty. Help us to remember the sacrifice of Your Son and the brokenness of His body. May we reflect on the treasure You have given us and may we always place You first.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson
Photo Credit: © Getty Images/YakubovAlim
Melissa is the author of Licky the Lizard and Grumpy the Gator. Her passions are helping in the community and church. Melissa is an Elder, Deacon, and Stephen Minister.
Follow Melissa on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and at http://www.melissaghenderson.
This article is part of our larger resource library of popular Bible verse phrases and quotes. We want to provide easy-to-read articles that answer your questions about the meaning, origin, and history of specific verses within Scripture's context. We hope that these will help you better understand the meaning and purpose of God's Word in your life today.