Preaching on The Vessel in the Potter's Hands

Let us turn our attention to a symbol rich in spiritual significance: olive oil. In scripture, olive oil is not merely a substance, but a powerful representation of the Holy Spirit, the source of light and life. We gather today to explore the depths of this symbolism and to understand how it illuminates our own spiritual journey.

1. Olive Oil as a Source of Light (Exodus 27:20)

"You shall command the children of Israel to bring you pure olive oil beaten for the lamp, to cause the lamps to burn continually." In the Tabernacle, olive oil was essential for keeping the lamps burning, providing light in the holy place. This represents the continuous presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer, illuminating our path and guiding us in darkness.

2. Oil and God's Instruction (Leviticus 24:2)

"Command the children of Israel that they bring you pure olive oil, beaten, for the light, to light the lamps continually." God's specific instruction to use pure, beaten olive oil emphasizes the importance of our communion with Him. Just as the oil was to be pure and constant, so too should our relationship with God be free from impurities and continually sustained.

3. Oil and the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:3-4)

"The foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, but the wise took oil in their flasks with their lamps." In this parable, the oil represents spiritual preparation for the return of Christ. Only those who have cultivated a deep and abiding relationship with the Holy Spirit, those who have "oil in their flasks," will be ready to meet the Bridegroom.

4. Oil and Service in the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:6)

"Oil for the light, spices for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense." Olive oil was an integral part of worship in the Tabernacle. Just as it was necessary for service then, the Holy Spirit is essential for our worship today. He empowers us, guides us, and enables us to offer acceptable worship to God.

5. Oil in the People's Offering (Exodus 35:8)

"Oil for the light, spices for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense." The olive oil was a voluntary offering from the people, a symbol of their willingness to contribute to God's work. It represents the believer's generosity, our desire to give back to God from the blessings He has bestowed upon us.

6. The Oil and Utensils of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:14)

"The lampstand for the light with its utensils, its lamps, and the oil for the light." The oil kept the candelabra lit, providing constant illumination. Similarly, our spiritual lives need to be constantly fueled by the Holy Spirit, the oil that keeps our light shining brightly.

7. Olive Oil as a Generosity Offering (Exodus 35:28)

"And spices and oil for the lampstand and for the anointing oil and for the sweet incense." The people's freewill offering of oil symbolizes the believer's generosity in supporting God's work. It reflects a heart that is willing to give sacrificially for the advancement of His kingdom.

8. The Oil and the Priestly Anointing (Exodus 39:37)

"The pure gold lampstand with its lamps, the lamps in order, and all its furnishings, and the oil for the light." Oil was also used for priestly anointing, representing God's calling and empowering of His servants. The Holy Spirit anoints us for service, equipping us with the gifts and abilities necessary to fulfill our calling.

9. Oil and the Responsibility of Leaders (Numbers 4:16)

"The responsibility of Eleazar son of Aaron the priest will be the oil for the light, the fragrant incense, the regular grain offering and the anointing oil, and the responsibility for the entire tabernacle and all that is in it, the sanctuary and its furnishings." Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to ensure that the "oil," the Holy Spirit's presence, is always available in the church. They must nurture and maintain the flame of the Spirit, ensuring that it never goes out.

Preaching on The Vessel in the Potter's Hands

Conclusion

Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us recognize the profound significance of olive oil as a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Let us strive to maintain a constant and pure communion with God, allowing the Spirit to illuminate our lives, empower our service, and prepare us for the return of our Lord. Let us be generous in our offerings, and let us be faithful stewards of the light that God has entrusted to us. Amen.

Preaching on The Vessel in the Potter's Hands