But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.
2 Corinthians 4:7

Earthen vessels, or simple clay pots, are nothing special. But what if something priceless is put into one? According to Paul’s logic, the pot is still a clay pot—nothing special. In fact the contrast between the simple clay pot and the costly contents draws our attention to ask the question, “Why would anyone put something so costly into an earthen vessel?” Paul’s answer is so that the contents would not be confused with the container.

The gospel of Jesus Christ is more precious, more valuable, more costly than anything. Yet God has been pleased to pour the gospel, Christ, and His Spirit into us—the simplest earthen vessels imaginable. Why? So that no one would ever confuse the contents with the container; the message with the messenger; Christ and the gospel with He has been pleased to save.

Let us therefore be careful not to think of ourselves as anything special because Christ saved us. Remember, He came to seek and to save that which was lost; not for the healthy, but the sick, not the righteous, but the unrighteous.

Let us also be aware not to elevate our favorite teachers, preachers, or Christian leaders as though they are to be unduly admired. They too are merely earthen vessels—vessels that contain, and through which that which is priceless flows. “…that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.”