Fire: Purifying Flame and Divine Judgment

Throughout the Bible, fire is utilised for domestic cooking, heating, burning of sacrifices, destroying idols and conquering cities (Ex 12:8; Lev 1:7; Deut 7:5; Josh 6:24). These practical applications established fire as an essential element of daily life in ancient times while also carrying deeper spiritual significance.

God's presence was often manifested through fire, demonstrating His power and guidance. The burning bush revealed God's holy presence to Moses, while the pillar of fire provided guidance and protection for the Israelites during their wilderness journey (Ex 3:2, 13:21). The miraculous fire from heaven that consumed Elijah's offering on Mount Carmel provided proof that Yahweh was the true God, in contrast to the powerless idols of Baal (1 Kgs 18:21-38).

The Holy Spirit's arrival at Pentecost was marked by tongues of fire resting upon each disciple, signifying God's presence and power (Act 2:3). This dramatic manifestation echoed Old Testament theophanies where fire represented God's glory and holiness. The Bible describes God as "a consuming fire" (Heb 12:29), emphasizing His pure and awesome nature that cannot tolerate sin.

John the Baptist proclaimed that Jesus would baptise believers "with the Holy Spirit and fire" (Mt 3:11), referring to His refining and purifying power. This baptism of fire speaks of purification from sin through the process of sanctification for all who submit to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit creates the passion of God within believers, as the disciples on the road to Emmaus experienced: "Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us...?" (Lk 24:32).

The seemingly instant result of those "clothed with this power from on high" was they had a passion that enabled them to preach the Word of God boldly and suffer intense persecution (Lk 24:49; Act 4:31, 5:40, 16:23, 22:24; 2 Cor 11:23-27). When people are 'on fire for God' this infers they are enthusiastic and devoted to Christ and His Kingdom.

Today the Holy Spirit is still powerfully impacting those who intentionally avail themselves of His ongoing transforming power (Gal 5:16; Eph 5:18). It is our focus and hunger that provides the fuel for the Spirit as "Without wood the fire goes out..." (Prov 26:20). Without our co-operation we are "putting out [pouring water on] the Spirit's fire" (1 Thes 5:19).

The Bible portrays fire as having two special functions – refining and punishing. Metallic ores are refined by fire to extract precious metals and this 'purifying by heat' analogy is carried over into the personal character realm, "I have tested you in the furnace of affliction" (Prov 17:3; Isa 6:5-7, 48:10; Zech 13:9; 1 Pet 1:7).

Fire purifies or destroys

What is unprofitable, useless and evil is burnt up while what survives the testing is of good and lasting worth (Gen 19:28; Mt 3:10,12, 7:19; Jn 15:6; 1 Cor 3:12-15). This refining process demonstrates God's loving discipline in the lives of His children, removing impurities and strengthening genuine faith.

The causal use of the phrase 'baptism by fire' refers to a difficult introduction to a new job. It is a misquote of trial by fire (1 Pet 1:6-7). The point is that the difficult trials and hardships are like a fire that tests the genuineness of gold and that burns out any impurities in the metal.

Several biblical illustrations also use fire, e.g. "Can a man play with the fire of temptation and not be burnt", and "The tongue is a fire setting great forests on fire" (Prov 6:27-29; Jas 3:5-6). These warnings highlight the destructive potential of sin and the importance of guarding against temptation.

God's purpose in allowing trials is never to destroy His children but to refine them. The same fire that consumes wood, hay, and stubble purifies gold, silver, and precious stones. Believers can trust that God uses all circumstances for their good and His glory, working through difficulties to produce lasting spiritual fruit.

At the end of time the sun will scorch people and the world will be destroyed by fire (2 Pet 3:3-7,10-12; Rev 16:8-9). Jesus referred to Hell as the place where the tormenting fire doesn't go out – the lake of fire to which the unbelievers are doomed is eternal damnation (Mt 5:22; Mk 9:43; Rev 19:20, 20:10-15, 21:8).

Scripture repeatedly warns of the consequences of unbelief and the certainty of divine judgment. These warnings are given not to drive people to fear but to lead them to repentance and faith. God's desire is that none should perish but that all should come to repentance through Christ.

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a historical example of God's judgment against persistent wickedness (Gen 19:28). This event, along with other biblical accounts of divine judgment, reminds readers of God's holiness and the seriousness of sin while pointing forward to the final judgment yet to come.

• Examine your heart: Are you 'on fire for God' with genuine passion and devotion to Christ?
• Consider how God is using current trials to refine your faith and character.
• Reflect on the urgency of sharing the gospel given the reality of eternal judgment.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to ignite or rekindle His fire within you for God's glory.