The phrase "those who tip vessels" is not directly found in the Bible; however, the concept of tipping or overturning vessels can be metaphorically related to themes of judgment, chaos, and divine retribution. In biblical literature, vessels often symbolize individuals, nations, or spiritual states, and their tipping or breaking can signify a disruption of order or the outpouring of God's wrath.

Symbolism of Vessels in Scripture

Vessels in the Bible frequently represent people or groups chosen for a specific purpose. For instance, in Jeremiah 18:4, the prophet describes a potter shaping a vessel, symbolizing God's sovereign authority over nations and individuals: "But the vessel that he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter’s hand, so he remade it into another vessel, as it pleased the potter to make." This imagery underscores the idea that God can reshape or repurpose His creation according to His will.

Judgment and Overturning

The act of tipping or overturning vessels can be seen as a metaphor for divine judgment. In Isaiah 29:16, the prophet challenges the people of Israel, saying, "You turn things upside down, as if the potter were regarded as clay. Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, 'He did not make me'? Can the pot say to the potter, 'He knows nothing'?" This passage highlights the folly of questioning God's authority and the inevitable consequences of such rebellion.

Similarly, in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul uses the imagery of vessels to discuss God's sovereign choice and judgment. In Romans 9:21-22, he writes, "Does not the potter have the right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special occasions and another for common use? What if God, intending to show His wrath and make His power known, bore with great patience the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction?" Here, the concept of vessels being prepared for destruction aligns with the idea of tipping or overturning as a form of divine retribution.

Spiritual Implications

From a spiritual perspective, the tipping of vessels can also symbolize the exposure of hidden sins or the revelation of true character. In 2 Timothy 2:20-21, Paul encourages believers to cleanse themselves from dishonorable use: "Now in a large house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use and some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work."

Practical Application

For believers, the imagery of vessels being tipped serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and obedience. It calls Christians to examine their lives, ensuring they are vessels of honor, ready to fulfill God's purposes. The potential for being overturned or judged should inspire a life of holiness and dedication to God's will.

In summary, while the specific phrase "those who tip vessels" is not found in the Bible, the concept is richly woven into the fabric of biblical teaching, illustrating themes of divine sovereignty, judgment, and the call to righteous living.