CLAY IN THE POTTER’S HAND
Jeremiah 18:1-17
INTRO: Whether we realize it or not, the United States, which was once a
great nation, is on the decline. Where once we were considered a nation of high standards, we are now looked at as a nation of drunken, immoral, greedy, wealthy, individuals, who think of nothing but how we can get more for our selves.
This message from Jeremiah to the men of Judah and Jerusalem is just as rele vant for us today as it was to the nations in Jeremiah’s time.
I. JEREMIAH RECEIVES GOD’S MESSAGE.
A. God inspired Jeremiah with his message.
1. Jeremiah went to the potters house (vv. 1-5).
a. He knew where to find it.
b. He probably knew how pottery was made.
2. While observing the pottery being made, God inspired him.
ILLUS: To make pottery you must first free the clay from all impurities. Then the potter fashions the clay into an object with his hands. The clay follows the movement of the potters hands in forming the object.
B. God is our Potter.
1. He told Jeremiah he could mold Israel (v. 6).
a. He can mold our nation as well.
b. He has the sovereign authority.
2. He has the power to rule all nations (vv. 7-10).
a. If the nation follows him, he will repent from his evil
thoughts.
b. Unless we submit ourselves to the molding of his hands, we
perish.
II. GOD INVITES MEN TO REPENTANCE.
A. Jeremiah tells them to repent or perish (v. 11).
1. They answer, "There is no hope" (v. 12).
2. They would rather perih than repent.
3. We will have our own way whatever it costs.
B. We are given the same invitation.
1. Unless we repent, we will be as they were.
2. This is for each individual, as well as the nation.
C. It is time for our nation to come to her knees in repentance.
1. It is time for our church to come to her knees.
2. If we don’t we will be punished.
