Soft Clay or Hard Clay?

Jeremiah 18:1-6

Dr. Todd Olson, Senior Pastor

July 16th, 2006

Pastor Todd's Sermon Outline:  071606otl 19/07/2006,12:38 19.89 Kb

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Historical Context:  Jeremiah, known as the weeping prophet (Lamentations), ministered as God’s spokesman for 40 years from about 627 BC - 586 B.C. Although he was from Anathoth (3 miles NE of Jerusalem), his ministry was primarily in Jerusalem, capitol of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. His prophetic work was during the reigns of King Josiah, Jehoiakim and Zedekiah. He was a contemporary to Daniel, Ezekiel and two of the minor prophets. His ministry consisted of speaking, writing (Baruch was his secretary), and prophetic symbolism (acted sign). The people of Judah thought they were in a good place spiritually but Jeremiah warned them, "They say, Peace! Peace! but there is no peace" (Jer 8:11-12). He tells God’s chosen people that national blessing is contingent upon personal holiness. He calls Judah to repent in chapter 18:7-10. His warning regarding the destruction of Jerusalem is recorded in chapter 18 and becomes a reality in chapter 52. Jeremiah was "a heart-broken prophet with a heart-breaking message".

I. A Life of OBEDIENCE. 1-3

Two Principles:

1. Obey and then God will guide.

2. Obedience is easier when you understand the nature of God.

II. An Experience of BROKENNESS. 4

1. Broken from The Fall.

2. Broken through my own sin.

3. Broken by God for His purposes.

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

III. An Understanding of GOD’S SOVERIEGNTY and OUR RESPONSIBILITY. 5-6

1. God initiates His will in our lives.

2. God uses all situations to accomplish His will.

You turn things upside down, as if the potter were thought to be like the clay! Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, "He did not make me"? Can the pot say of the potter, "He knows nothing"? Isaiah 29:16

3. God chooses to include us in the process.