Romans - Part 5: ELECTIONSample

The Potter Chooses the Clay

Is anybody out there struggling with Romans Chapter 9? I certainly have at several points during my walk with Christ. When it comes to Salvation, God just doesn’t seem fair.

Today’s passage is a perfect example. Using the analogy of a potter and his clay, the passage says that some clay is used to make good things, useful things, and beautiful things. On the other hand, some clay is used to make ugly things, things of vile use, things that are not good.

When we look at Isaiah 64:8, the reference is clear: God is the potter and we are the clay. So, I reasoned, how is that fair? If the potter can choose to make some things ugly and common. I thought I had found a verse that would supersede this Roman passage and win me some debate points in a Bible Study I was attending. I was prepared; I thought it through. When the leader claimed God chooses some and not others, I would break out John 3:16.

So, I did, and the humble, patient reply he gave was one I will never forget. He asked us all to turn to John. Chapter 3 and together we read the verses before and after verse 16, John 3:10-31.Because of Adam and Eve’s rebellion, we are born condemned.

Now, I understand that the only reason we’re not all made to be dishonorable clay pots is because, through Jesus Christ, God has mercifully made some of us to be re-made as beautiful, useful vessels. I’m thankful God is not fair, because if He were fair, everyone would be condemned. But, because of His grace and mercy, we who believe are saved. This saving comes with an awesome responsibility; since we don’t know which clay pots are which, we need to share the glorious message of the Love of Jesus to ALL.

-Jeff Troost