What is the significance of the 'earthen vessels' metaphor in the Bible?

In 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul describes believers as 'earthen vessels' to illustrate our fragile and fallible nature. This imagery emphasizes that while we are weak and imperfect, we carry the profound treasure of the Gospel within us—Christ in us, our hope of glory. The sermon highlights that it is through our brokenness and vulnerability that God's light shines most brightly. Just as Gideon's seemingly inadequate force was used by God to achieve victory, our weaknesses are the very means through which God displays His strength and grace. God's power is made perfect in our weakness, allowing Him alone to receive the glory.