And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 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. - 2 Timothy 2:17-20

    Paul, writing about two men, Hymenaeus and Philetus, who concerning the truth had erred, declared, "nevertheless, the foundation of God standeth sure ... the Lord knoweth them that are his."

    It grieves all believers to see those who have made a profession of faith in Christ, who have indicated that they believed His word and loved the Lord Jesus, who have even preached, taught the word, and been faithful for a time, to fall away from grace, the gospel, and church fellowship. However, while we grieve for them and others whom they influence, we ought not to be amazed or unduly shaken; for our Lord warned of tares among the wheat, of branches that bear no fruit, and of false teachers among the true.

    "In a great house," Paul continues, "there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also vessels of wood and earth; some to honor and some to dishonor (or some to other uses)." So, in the church there are men and women who faithfully reflect the grace and honor of Christ all their lives, chosen vessels of pure gold. There are others who will be used of God to accomplish His purpose even in their unfaithfulness. Both MOSES and PHARAOH were raised up to accomplish His purpose. O, by his grace, to be a vessel of honor!