silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some
SERMON X.
2 TIMOTHY, Chap. ii. verses 20 and 21.
20. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
21. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
When we see contemners of God, who set bad examples, we sometimes depart from the right way, thinking we have somewhat to excuse ourselves before God; not knowing that these should serve as an exercise of our faith. Therefore, St. Paul not only exhorteth us to separate ourselves from all iniquity, that we may not be like the contemners of God, but he exhorteth us not to be offended, nor take occasion to doubt, when we see men wickedly disposed. He hath before illustrated this matter, but now confirmeth it by a fit similitude. And first, that we may not think ourselves worthy of pardon if we do evil and follow those who despise God, St. Paul saith, in a great house there are divers vessels. If the cupboard or table be furnished with vessels of gold and silver, in the kitchen may be seen vessels of wood and stone. When we see such a variety, we marvel not at it; for if a man should cast his gold and silver among the refuse of his house, what should we think of him? Should we not say he was mad? If it is not impro per to have vessels appointed to an unseemly use in a great house, shall we not be content with it in the house of God? Shall we allow greater privileges to mortal man than to the living God?