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But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the exceeding greatness of the power may be of God, and not from ourselves.
Verse Takeaways
1
Treasure in Clay Jars
Scholars unanimously highlight the stark contrast Paul draws. The 'treasure' is the priceless gospel and the knowledge of God's glory. The 'earthen vessels' are the ministers themselves—frail, weak, and ordinary human beings. Commentators note this imagery reflects the real-world practice of storing valuables in simple clay pots, emphasizing that the container's lowliness does not diminish the value of its contents.
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2 Corinthians
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14
18th Century
Presbyterian
But we have this treasure. This refers to the treasure of the gospel: the rich and invaluable truths that they were called to preach to ot…
This treasure (τον θησαυρον τουτον). On θησαυρον see Mt 6:19-21. It is the power of giving the illumination of the knowledge of th…
19th Century
Anglican
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels.—The imagery here begins to change. The treasure is the knowledge of the glory of God
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Baptist
That the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
If angels had been commissioned to preach the gospel, we might have …
Here is the first paradox—the difference between the indescribable value of the Gospel “treasure” (GK 2565) and the apparent worthlessness of the G…
16th Century
Protestant
But we have this treasure. Those who heard Paul glorying in such magnificent terms about the excellence of his ministry, and saw, on the o…
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17th Century
Reformed Baptist
But we have, this treasure in earthen vessels This is a further commendation of the Gospel; and by which the apostle…
The best of people would faint if they did not receive mercy from God. And that mercy which has helped us out, and helped us on, until now, we may …
13th Century
Catholic
Previously, the Apostle discussed the purpose of the New Testament ministry in relation to doing good; here, he discusses its purpose in relation t…
