10/20/2025
AskKirkLockhartAbout:Scriptures that describe God expelling fire in various ways, such as consuming a burnt offering (Leviticus 9:24), destroying wicked cities like S***m and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:24), and as a symbol of His power and judgment (Isaiah 66:16, 2 Kings 1:10). The concept of God being a "consuming fire" is also used metaphorically to represent his holiness and power (Deuteronomy 4:24).
Examples of God's fire
To consume offerings: Fire came down from heaven to consume the burnt offering on the altar after Solomon finished praying, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple (2 Chronicles 7:1-3).
To destroy the wicked: The Lord rained down sulfur and fire from heaven to destroy the cities of S***m and Gomorrah due to their wickedness (Genesis 19:24).
To execute judgment: Isaiah states that "For by fire and by his sword the LORD will execute judgment on all flesh" (Isaiah 66:16).
To demonstrate power: Elijah called down fire from heaven to consume a captain and his men when they challenged him, saying, "If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume you and your fifty" (2 Kings 1:10).
As a symbol of presence: The angel of the Lord appeared to Moses in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush, demonstrating God's presence (Exodus 3:2).
As a metaphor for a consuming presence: God is described as a "consuming fire" to emphasize His holiness and power, a truth recognized by those who are afraid in His presence (Deuteronomy 4:24, Isaiah 33:14).
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