A Vessel in God's House: Ready to do any good work

By Desiree Geldart

Every one of us is moulded by various factors that make us who we are. These factors can be either good or bad, and include such things as parenting styles, cultures, teachers, peers and even the negative effects of divorce, drugs, violence, etc. All these experiences affect how we view ourselves, how we react to situations, how we relate to each other, how we respond to conflict and, ultimately, how we walk daily with God. This book seeks to show that the child of God is a “vessel” – useful and consecrated for God as described in 2 Timothy 2:20-21. By examining the composition and makeup of each vessel and its purpose, we can better understand how God designed us to be capable of living a life worthy of His call. It also identifies the means to help gain victory over sin in all circumstances, irrespective of how we have been influenced throughout our lives. God made us all unique and by moulding and guiding our lives, He has given us the strength and ability to stand in the face of the darkest moments, the deepest trials and the fiercest temptations. This book is suitable for anyone interested in learning about the Christian faith or Christians seeking encouragement to persevere. Also, it is suitable for individuals seeking to live a fulfilled life. It can be used as a study guide for Bible groups or individual reading. Helpful tools and hints are provided throughout to assist us in allowing God to remould our character to be more like His original design for us. The book is focused on the truth revealed in biblical text and not intended to be slanted towards any particular denomination.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Austin Macauley Publishers
• Release date: Sep 30, 2021
• ISBN: 9781528960069

Desiree Geldart

Desiree Geldart is one of four daughters and an identical twin, born in Northern Rhodesia—modern day Zambia. Although she did not grow up in a dedicated Christian home, she was taught about the basics of prayer. At age seven, she developed a love for God and one Friday evening during a Bible youth session, Desiree and her twin sister, Keren, committed their lives to serving God in ministry. Desiree remains committed to serving the community through the church and various children’s ministries. She has three children and seven beautiful grandchildren.

Book preview

A Vessel in God’s House

Ready to do any good work

Desiree Geldart

Austin Macauley Publishers

A Vessel in God’s House

About the Author

Copyright Information ©

Dedication

Preface

Vessels in God’s House

The Vessel’s Purpose

Jesus Our Wisdom

Jesus Our Righteousness

Jesus Our Sanctification

Jesus Our Redemption

Testing the Vessels

Overcoming Temptation

Understanding the Enemy

God’s Powerful Arsenal Part 1

God’s Powerful Arsenal Part 2

Preparing for Battle

The Battleground

The Vessel’s Trademark

Strengthening the Vessels

Active Service

The Useless and Filthy Vessel

The Useful and Clean Vessel

The Chipped, Scratched and Broken Vessel

The Chosen Vessel

Silent Reflections

References

About the Author

Desiree Geldart is one of four daughters and an identical twin, born in Northern Rhodesia—modern day Zambia. Although she did not grow up in a dedicated Christian home, she was taught about the basics of prayer. At age seven, she developed a love for God and one Friday evening during a Bible youth session, Desiree and her twin sister, Keren, committed their lives to serving God in ministry.

Desiree remains committed to serving the community through the church and various children’s ministries. She has three children and seven beautiful grandchildren.

Copyright Information ©

Desiree Geldart (2021)

The right of Desiree Geldart to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted by the author in accordance with section 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publishers.

Any person who commits any unauthorised act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.

A CIP catalogue record for this title is available from the British Library.

ISBN 9781528912266 (Paperback)

ISBN 9781528960069 (ePub e-book)

www.austinmacauley.com

First Published (2021)

Austin Macauley Publishers Ltd

25 Canada Square

Canary Wharf

London

E14 5LQ

Dedication

Special thanks to my wonderful husband Dennis, my family, and my dear friend Claire for their continued encouragement and support they have so freely given to me.

Preface

Being a child of God in the world today, requires a good understanding of who we are in Christ; the reason for our existence, the purpose for our lives and finally, how to survive unstained and unscarred by the cares and troubles of a world so marred by sin and unrighteousness.

Everyone is generally a by-product of their upbringing, having been moulded through a range of circumstances and varying factors, making us who we are. For example, different parenting styles during childhood may affect our lives positively or negatively. Good parenting styles are generally balanced and have a positive effect whilst other parenting styles may lack discipline, instruction, guidance or even love, resulting in more negative influences in our lives.

Circumstances in the home may permanently affect how we respond to society, and individually with our peers. Some families are subject to the use of drugs, violence and alcohol or there may be a broken home as a result of separation or divorce. Varying cultures bring their own differences, rules and requirements which are in themselves powerful to influence and mould character. Teachers have a strong influence over children and so, throughout our early developmental years, we may have been subject to a variety of different ideas, styles and values.

All these factors affect how we see ourselves; how we respond to circumstances in our lives; how we respond to each other and how we respond to conflict. They may encourage social interaction or inhibit our ability to interact with peers and acceptance into society; these factors very often affect how we walk daily with God.

This book describes the child of God as a vessel, useful and consecrated for God as described in 2 Timothy 2:20-21. By examining the composition and makeup of each vessel and its purpose, it helps us understand how God designed each one of us to be capable of living a life worthy of His call. It also identifies means to help gain victory over sin in all circumstances, irrespective of how we have been moulded or influenced throughout our lives.

God made each one of us unique and, in His moulding and fashioning of our lives; He has given us the strength and the ability to stand in the face of even the darkest moments, the deepest trials and the fiercest temptations. Reading this book gives us a better understanding of the purpose for our lives. It also provides some helpful tools and hints throughout, to assist us in allowing God to remould our character to be more like His original design for us.

Each chapter concludes with a list of thought- provoking questions under the heading Silent Reflections. These questions will encourage us to evaluate our lives in light of God’s plan for us through self-assessment and meditation on God’s Word.

This book has been written at a level suitable for anyone who is interested in learning more about the Christian faith. It can also be used as a study guide for Bible groups comprising both young and mature Christians.

Finally, as you work through this book, I encourage you to study carefully the word of God so you may grow up in Him who has called you into His heavenly Kingdom. Make it your aim to be a vessel worthy of God’s calling, complete in your faith and lacking in nothing. As a result, you will be a witness for God and He will always be glorified through your life.

Some important references are noted below to assist you as you work through this book:

References

Vessels – refer to God’s children (e.g. Christians).

Unless otherwise stated, the term man includes the female gender.

The abbreviation (SC) refers to the Strong’s Concordance and its stated reference.

Most Bible references have been taken from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) and some from the New King James Version (NKJV) where the scripture reflects more accurately the original Greek or Hebrew meaning.

Bible references have been provided where appropriate for use in Bible study.

Vessels in God’s House

But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honour and some for dishonour. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work

(2 Tim. 2:19-21 NKJV).

The Bible makes numerous references to vessels which were used for a range of purposes. The term vessel is not restricted for use as storage only but is generally something that is useful and has a purpose. Some vessels were for general household use such as food platters, bowls, drinking cups and jars of varying sizes for storage. Other vessels were used for worship, such as the vessels contained within the tabernacle, the brazen altar, the laver, the golden candlesticks, the golden altar of incense, the table of showbread and the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred vessel within the tabernacle, and was located in the rear compartment called the Most Holy Place, also known as the Holy of Holies. The Ark of the Covenant contained Aaron’s rod that budded, the jar of manna that served as a reminder of God’s faithful provision and the two tablets of stone containing God’s holy law – the Ten Commandments (Exod. 32:15-16).

During times of war, vessels played an equally important part in the storage of weapons, food and water. These vessels were made from gold, silver, wood or earthenware (clay). In the temple and the king’s palace, the vessels were normally made from gold and silver, symbolising royalty and riches (1 Chron. 28:17).

In 2 Timothy 2:20-21 (NKJV) the term vessel is used to describe the child of God. In order to fully understand this application it is necessary to look briefly at the full context which is derived in reading from verses 19 to 21 which sets the foundation of this book:

Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: The Lord knows those who are His, and, Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity (v19).

But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honour and some for dishonour. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honour, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work (v 20-21).

In verse 19, Paul’s reference to foundation builds a platform for the introduction to verses 20 onwards. The foundation mentioned here refers to God’s building and His church (Christian). Therefore, we can accept that the phrase great house has the same meaning with reference to the household of God and His people (v20). In this passage, the Greek word for house is oikia (SC 3614) which means a residence – usually an abode and by implication a family especially that of a domestic household.

The Greek word for great is interpreted as large, big and spanning over a large area. This great house is not just any ordinary house; this house is God’s house – God’s family.

In scripture this great house has three distinct parts:

As in any house, there is diversity. The diversity of the vessels in this great house is reflected in their purpose, makeup and composition, each carefully constructed of materials suitable for a purpose. Diversity is necessary for this great house to operate effectively and efficiently. The architect and builder of this great house is God (Heb. 11:10) and because diversity is fundamental to who God is, diversity will be prevalent throughout its foundations, its walls and its occupants – God’s children.

Diversity is defined in the Collins Dictionary in three ways:

The state or quality of being different or varied,

A point of difference,

The relation that holds between two entities when and only when they are not identical; the property of being numerically distinct.

This definition is interesting because it encompasses everything God is, what He has created, what He stands for and who He is. It is not a diversity of division but one of unity.

The state or quality of being different or varied:

The diversity in what God has created is evidenced in everything He has made. The variety within every aspect of creation is phenomenal. When we look at the universe, it is rich with diversity. Every planet and star is distinctly different, as each operates independently, yet they all remain in perfect unity within their respective solar systems. Every snowflake is different; each forming their own individual shape and pattern as they move through fluctuating temperatures and humidity. The same diversity is seen in the variety of animal species, vegetation and seas. In each there is a wonderfully unique and perfect relationship that binds everything together, yet this diversity allows each the freedom to operate independently and yet in unity within set boundaries.

God’s plan for man is also embedded in diversity. This diversity is clearly seen in their different personalities, characters, sizes, shapes and forms and then there is diversity of language and culture. Within this diversity there is the ability for man to operate independently and still remain in unity with each other. God’s plan for man is so perfect that it creates a community that harmoniously works together. If man succumbs to His will, this diversity is so wonderfully coordinated and, when working together in harmony as God designed, it brings glory to His name.

A point of difference:

The diversity in what God stands for is seen in the point of difference. This point of difference is in the choice to do what is good and right and true and not what is bad (sinful). The point of difference is what sets God apart – it is His holiness. This diversity is also reflective in our lives and as God’s children, we too have the freedom of choice, to do what is good and right and true.

The relation that holds between two entities when and only when they are not identical:

The diversity of who God is, is evidenced in the Trinity (or Godhead) which consists of three distinct persons: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Each person within the Trinity operates in unity with each other – they are distinctly different from each other, yet they are one.

In the Old and New Testament similar words are used for vessel.

The Old Testament, the Hebrew word for vessel is:

Kelı̂y (SC 3627) meaning something prepared i.e. as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon and apparatus or instrument.

The New Testament Greek, two words are used:

Skeuos (SC 4632) meaning a vessel, an implement, equipment or apparatus. This word can be used literally as an implement, container or vessel or it can be used figuratively referring to God’s children. This is the same word used for vessel in 2 Timothy 2:20-21, referring to God’s children:

"But in a great house there are not only vessels (skeuos) of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honour and some for dishonour. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel (skeuos) for honour, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work" (v 20-21).

Skeuos can also mean specifically a wife contributing to the usefulness of the husband implying she becomes an instrumental participant in his life.

Another Greek word for vessel is hoplon (SC 3696) from a prime word hepo (to be busy about); meaning an implement or utensil or tool, especially of war, such as armour, whether offensive or defensive. It is the same word used for weapons when Judas procured a band of soldiers who went with lanterns, torches and weapons (hoplon) to find Jesus.

Hoplon can also be used figuratively, for example, when Paul was speaking to the Romans, he encouraged them not to use their bodies as instruments (hopla) of wickedness (Rom. 6:13).

In both the Old and New Testaments the word vessel is literally translated as a useful tool, instrument or utensil. Figuratively it is more often referring to God’s children or His chosen one (instrument) to do His work.

Characteristics of the Vessels

For any vessel to operate effectively it must be specifically designed and constructed from materials suitable for its purpose. The vessels in this great house are diverse; Paul describes them as being made from gold, silver, wood and clay.

Each material has its own distinct composition and unique features; each material has its own strengths and weaknesses and can withstand pressure and testing in different degrees. For example, clay can withstand a high degree of heat before it becomes brittle yet wood cannot withstand the same degree of heat without being consumed. Just as the family of God is diverse, so God created each member of His household with their own strengths and weaknesses, each with their own unique character and personality, delicately and specifically created for His purpose.

Gold

The first mention of gold in the Bible is in the land of Havilah in the area of the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:10-12). The Bible tells us this gold was good, having brilliance and splendour, the Hebrew word for gold is zâhâb (SC 2091) meaning to shimmer; gold; figuratively something gold coloured (that is, yellow).

Gold has always been revered by man because of its beauty and its unique qualities; it never rusts, evaporates or dissolves and is easily shaped. Because it is malleable, a small quantity, as little as one gram, can be beaten into a sheet the size of a square meter, known today as gold leaf. This process was widely used in early Bible times in the building of the tabernacle and the temple, and overlaying of objects in and outside of the temple. One of the most important objects of the tabernacle was the Ark of the Covenant made from acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold (Exod. 37:2). Gold was in such abundance during the reign of Solomon that even the floor of the temple was overlaid with gold.

James, when writing to the twelve tribes of Israel, warns them their gold and silver have rusted (Jas. 5:3). Here the term gold and silver is referring to riches and not specifically to the minerals themselves. Gold and silver do not rust or oxidize like other metals, although silver may tarnish. However, gold when stored in a damp place over a long period of time, will lose its lustre and give the appearance of tarnishing but this is easily corrected through polishing.

Today there are generally two methods of measuring the purity of gold:

The carat (karat) which measures pure gold by the ratio of gold mass to the mass of the object – divided by 24. For example 18 carat gold is 18 parts per 24 (75% gold). 24 carat gold is the purest gold and is said to be 99.9% pure because it contains few filler metals. 24 carat gold is normally found in bars, coins and ingots because it is too soft for use in jewellery.

The millesimal fineness system measures gold purity as a decimal in parts per thousand (ppt). For example 999 gold is 24 carat gold (also known as the three nines fine). 995 gold is the minimum measure allowed for gold bars. The purest gold ever recorded was 999.999 refined by the Perth Mint, Western Australia in 1957.

In 2010 an amusing article relative to gold appeared in the news. A number of clients of a Russian commercial precious metal trading company requested their 999 (24 carat) gold coins be stored, not in a safe, but in a more secure place – buried under an oak tree. Once buried, the coins began to oxidize under the influence of moisture. This raised questions as to whether the gold was diluted because gold simply cannot rust. For rust to occur, there must be the presence of iron to allow the oxidization process to take place. As a result of the discovery, all gold coins of the same type and inscription as well as other gold coins from the Bank of Russia were excluded from the company’s operations until the outcome of the investigation had been determined. An interview on Russian Television claimed, The Russian Central Bank would buy back the coins at a price of 9,300 Roubles (RUB), despite prevailing prices for the bullion at well over 10,000. This case has raised questions as to whether the gold had been diluted with oxidizable materials and subsequently passed off for 999 gold and whether this deceptive practice was being carried out by any other banks around the world.

Gold, when passed through fire, is not harmed by the fire. Each time it passes through the fire it becomes more refined. Gold, in its natural form is always found with, or in close proximity to silver. This alloy is known as electrum. The two metals can be extracted and used separately, but when found together they are a stronger metal. It is likely that electrum was commonly used in early Bible times because separation methods were not as sophisticated as they are today. This may also be the reason why, in 2 Timothy 2:20, Paul refers to these metals together as gold and silver.

In scripture, gold is described as precious and valuable. This illustration used to describe gold when tested by fire is also used to describe us as God’s children after we have been tested and tried. Because as gold is genuine, strong, enduring and immovable as it passes through the fire, so too are we when we face trials and tribulations. We see this illustration with Job when the devil tested and tried his faith. Job suffered immensely (Job. 1:12 – 2:7), yet he remained steadfast and faithful to God throughout this testing. In the face of extreme hardship and suffering, Job found courage to endure, and through his faith in God, he declared, When He has tested me, I shall come out like gold (Job. 23:10).

Silver

Silver is a metallic chemical element, its name meaning grey or shining. It is very ductile, malleable, slightly harder than gold and can take a high degree of polishing, but unlike gold, silver tarnishes easily. In early Bible times silver was more abundant than gold but because silver was harder to detect in its raw form, it was considered more valuable than gold until around 500 BC.

Silver is generally found in an impure state and requires refining as we see in Proverbs 25:4, Take away the dross from the silver, and the smith has material for a vessel. Silver was used in the early Bible times for a range of items such as bowls, cups, instruments, ornaments and idols.

The process of refining silver is long and tedious. It requires the silversmith to sit in front of the fire and hold the metal over the hottest part of the flame until all the impurities are burnt away. The silversmith continually keeps watch over the silver the entire time whilst it is over the flame. If it is left too long over the flame it will be destroyed and of no use to him. The silversmith knows the silver is refined when he can see his image in it.

Refining of silver is illustrative of the process to test our character and makeup as God’s children, For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried (Ps. 66:10). If the heart is wicked, no matter how hard the silversmith (namely God), tries to refine the lump of silver, the dross will remain, leaving evidence of an unrepentant heart (Jer. 6:29, 30). Just as the silversmith keeps watch over the silver in the fire so that it does not spoil, so God keeps watch over us and will not stop refining us until He can clearly see His image in us. Therefore, we should welcome the tests and trials that come upon us so we may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (Jas. 1:4b).

Wood

In early Bible times, trees grew in abundance in and around Israel.

There were considerable forests of oak and cedar in the mountainous areas. In and around the Plane of Sharon the Tabor and Vallonea oak were common. The abundance of wood provided easy access to a valuable resource that was relatively economical to obtain. The composition of these woods varied from soft to hard. The textures and colours also varied from beige wood colours to reds and browns. The durability of wood and its ability to withstand high level use, made it suitable for construction of almost everything from vessels, to housing, chariots and weapons. The first real evidence of wood working (carpentry) in the Bible is found in Gen 6:14, where God instructs Noah to build an ark using wood. Building a wooden vessel of this magnitude we can assume that Noah had some carpentry knowledge. Carpentry was not only used for building but also crafting in wood and, as noted by Isaiah, they made wooden idols for themselves for worship of foreign gods (Isa. 44:17).

The Egyptians used wooden vessels to store