(19) В¶ Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. (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.
Reader! what a glorious truth is here! How are all the persons of the Godhead brought into one view, in their Covenant offices and characters to confirm the everlasting purposes toward the Church it Christ. The foundation is in God's eternal decree, and therefore most sure. Ephesians 1:4. It is founded also in Christ the rock of ages. Deuteronomy 32:31; Deuteronomy 32:31; 1 Corinthians 3:11. And it is sealed by the Holy Ghost. Ephesians 1:13. And the sure consequence resulting from this everlasting security, is that the Lord willeth them by his grace, while enjoining them by his precept, to depart from errors both in faith and practice. God's biddings are enablings where the work of regeneration hath passed on the heart.
The similitude which Paul adopts to illustrate the doctrine he is upon, is very beautiful. He considers the Church of Christ, as a great house, where many enter: for it is an open house. And both Professor and Profane, as well as the children of the household will come. But the difference is at once marked. The vessels of mercy are called gold and silver. Such are Christ's Jewels. Malachi 3:17. The vessels of wood and earth are to dishonor. There needs no further comment. The figure explains itself. But how doth the subject strike the mind of the child of God, when he calls to remembrance from what source alone, the one is chosen to honor, and the other to dishonor! And how doth that question involuntarily arise in the mind, on such a review; Lord, how is it that thou dost manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? John 14:22.