Read 2 Timothy 2:19–26
Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm. 2 Timothy 2:19

In this illustration, Paul described a “great house,” which is the professing church. The foundation of the house is safe and secure because God’s seal is on it. Paul quoted Moses: “The LORD will show who belongs to him” (Num. 16:5). This refers to the Godward aspect of the Christian life: God chose us who trust Him as His elect (2 Tim. 2:10).

But there is also a manward aspect of the Christian life: “Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity” (2 Tim. 2:19 KJV). In other words, those who are the elect of God prove it by living godly lives. We are chosen in Christ “to be holy and blameless” (Eph. 1:4).

This great house not only has a solid foundation, but it also has vessels (utensils of various kinds) for performing household functions. Paul divides the utensils into two categories: those of honor (gold and silver) and those of dishonor (wood and clay). He is making a distinction between true teachers of the Word and the false teachers he described (2 Tim. 2:16–18).

A faithful pastor is like a gold or silver vessel that brings honor to Jesus Christ.

Something to Ponder
In what ways is your church like the “great house” Paul describes in this passage? What is your role in the great house?