Preaching Outline – Vase and Potter

Biblical Text: Jeremiah 18:1-6 (NIV)

“The word that came from the Lord to Jeremiah, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter’s house, and there you will hear my words. And I went down to the potter’s house, and, behold, he was busy working on the wheels . As the vessel which he made of clay was spoiled in the hand of the potter, he made it another vessel again, as it seemed good in his eyes to do. Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying, I shall not be able to make of you How did this potter, O house of Israel? says the Lord. Behold, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.”

Outline Objective:
Demonstrate the relationship between God and His people using the metaphor of the potter and the vessel, emphasizing divine molding and the need for submission to God’s will.

Introduction:
Start by explaining the importance of metaphors in the Bible and how they are powerful tools for conveying spiritual truths. Introduce the concept of the potter and the vessel as a representation of the relationship between God and His people.

Central Theme:
The central theme is the analogy of the pot and potter, exploring how God shapes and transforms our lives according to His will.

Development:

The Potter’s House

• The importance of the environment in divine molding.
• How to remain in the presence of God?

The Wheels of Life

• The constant movement of life and the lessons learned.
• The role of circumstances in character formation.

The Damaged Vase

• Understanding human imperfections.
• God’s mercy in dealing with our failures.

Divine Reconstruction

• God’s grace in giving us new opportunities.
• The importance of surrender and repentance.

Clay in God’s Hands

• Our fragility and dependence on the Creator.
• Accepting God’s sovereignty over our lives.

Like This Potter

• The call to imitate God in the formation of others.
• Developing a heart of compassion and patience.

House of Israel

• Applying the message to the Christian community.
• The collective responsibility to submit to the divine will.

The Power of Submission

• The benefits of fully trusting in God.
• Living a life of submission and obedience.

Additional Verses:

• Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
• Romans 9:21 – “The potter has no power over clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honor and another for dishonor.”

Conclusion:
Reinforce the idea that, just as the potter shapes the vessel, God shapes our lives in a unique and perfect way. Highlight the importance of submission, trust and repentance in the process of spiritual transformation.

Recommended Occasion:
This outline is suitable for worship services, Bible studies, spiritual retreats, or times when you want to address the importance of submission to divine will and ongoing spiritual transformation.