Atlas,
Although I agree with your final position and not with Chip, I feel your explanation for “made” is not correct. It is like those that say “by and though” are the same. God's is not using “made and create” for a symbolic point. Made ties into many passages that fit God's purpose, it is nearly silly to take your position on the usage as you defend it as a synonym.
Without wasting time with explaining something you need to further research, you can start with earthen vessel, he is the potter we are the clay, and this direction will certainly have some edifying revelations, to both of you.