I'm still not clear from reading this, whether he actually said "Earthly vessels" or "Earthen vessels"

There is quite a big difference.

The latter means a clay pot and would certainly be quite an insult.

The former does not. As far as I can make out, "earthly vessel" is normally intended to mean a temporal manifestation (or incarnation) of a spiritual entity.

(To avoid confusion and unnecessary argument, I myself reject any concept of spirituality or a spiritual dimension. Feel free to call me a materialist.)