Should We Use Vessel or Channel?

Since the world seems to have tainted their meanings, should we as believers be concerned about the use of the words vessel or channel in reference to us?

Possibly the words "vessels" and "channels" are being used too often interchangeably, as a picture of us as believers. Below are both the biblical and secular definitions. The word "channel" in the Webster’s dictionary simply means a passageway; place where water flows through. The Hebrew word used in II Samuel, Job, Psalms, and Isaiah is aphiyq which means "channel;" and is used interchangeably throughout the Bible with river, stream, brooks, etc.

The word "vessel" in Webster’s dictionary is defined as a container, something that holds something. Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary says:

"...In an even broader sense, vessel refers to people who carry within them the knowledge of God (II Corinthians 4:6-7). Just as any clay vessel reflects the craftsmanship of its potter, so people reflect the craftsmanship of God. Man is in God’s hands and is formed in accordance with His plan (Romans 9:21-23)."

In II Corinthians 7 and II Timothy 2:20, 21 the Greek word is skeuos which metaphorically is translated man of quality; a chosen instrument.

So in actuality these words have two different meanings. Speaking of a believer as a "channel" (i.e., "channel of God’s blessing") would mean that we are clear and open for God to move in and through us in touching others. The term "vessel," speaking of a believer, would be one that just by their mere appearance and actions show or reflect the love, goodness, salvation, healing, etc. of our Heavenly Father. Both are beautiful pictures of God’s grace in and through our lives.

There are many wonderful words that the enemy would like to steal and try to force Christian’s to expel from their vocabulary (i.e., the rainbow, "born again," etc.). Although, because of a possible misunderstanding, it is very important that we make ourselves very clear when we choose to use such terminology that can be taken another way. We don’t ever want to speak "Christianese," a language that is not understandable to those that do not know Christ. We are called to reach them with His love, so we must be very clear in our lives and presentation of the Gospel.

	Living Way Ministries 14820 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91405-2233 In Canada: Box 75300 White Rock, B.C. V4B 5L4 (800) 776-8180 * FAX: (818) 779-8411 Privacy Statement Last updated on: 01/18/2002