The Potter and the Clay

I. A Perplexing Question 19

How can any man be held accountable for his sin when God is sovereign over everything – even our sin?

II. Paul Addresses the Objection 20-21

A.  Two answers
    1. Who do you think you are to talk back to God?			
    2. Don't you know that He is the Creator God and you are the creature?

B.  Two Interpretations from those who contradict God's Sovereignty	
    1. This has nothing to do with individuals, and speaks only of nations.
    
    2.  Others say God doesn't harden anyone unless they harden themselves first – and then they go to other Scriptures.

    

III. All Men Are Made of the Same Stuff 20-21

Paul's point is:  All men are made of the same stuff.
    The difference between men is the purpose God has for them
    It is the Creator's right to do what He will with His creation.

IV. The Potter and the Clay 20-21

A.  God as a Potter
                
B.  The Potter Imagery comes from the Old Testament
    Isa. 29:15-16;  Isa. 45:9;  Isa. 64:8;  Jeremiah 18:1-6

V. Positive Purposes Served by Evil 22-23

A.  It shows forth the wrath of God

B.  It serves to make His power known

C.  It shows God's justice and His grace by way of contrast between 	His wrath on the lost and the richness of His mercy to those He chose before time.

D.  It proves He is a longsuffering God -- 2 Peter 3:9