Going Through the Fire

By: Garry Maddux

September 1, 2024

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 1:6-9:

6) “Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

7) That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

8) Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

9) Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.”

God has brought a purifying fire into my life many times. What a change this made! We will explore the concept of "fire" in the Bible:

• How it symbolizes trials,
• How it symbolizes God's presence,
• How it symbolizes purification,
• How it symbolizes judgment.

I found an exciting poem to go along with today's message.

Opening Poem (Unknown Author)

The Fire of God, a Flame Divine,
Ignites our hearts; our souls align.
With holy heat, it burns within,
Consuming doubt, erasing sin.

A blaze that purifies our soul,
Restoring us, making us whole.
From heaven’s throne, the fire descends,
A light that guides, a love that mends.

It sparks a passion deep and true,
Reviving dreams, renewing you.
In trials faced, the fire refines,
With every glow, God’s will align.

So let the fire burn bright and clear,
Chase away every trace of fear.
For in His flames, we find our way,
To walk in light, to live each day.

What is Fire about

Baptism with the Holy Ghost and Fire

John the Baptist declared:

Matt 3:11-12, I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. 12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

John the Baptist uses the phrase metaphorically: "I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry.

Jesus baptizes us with the Holy Spirit and Fire.

Fire tries our works:

1 Corinthians 3:13-15 (KJV): "Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire."

The apostle Paul uses the concept of fire to describe the testing of one's work: "Each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, the fire will test what sort of work each one has done."

This fire signifies a more profound spiritual experience beyond repentance and forgiveness, a transformational encounter with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Fire as a Symbol of God's Presence and Purification

• Exodus 3:2 - The Burning Bush
  "And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed."
  Context: Moses encounters God through the burning bush.
• Lesson: God's fire (presence) calls us to His purpose.
• Leviticus 9:24 - Fire from the Lord
  Context: God's acceptance of the offering through fire.
  Lesson: Fire as a symbol of divine approval and purification.br />

Symbolism of Fire:

Fire symbolizes purification and the refining work of the Holy Spirit

Fire represents God's intense, purifying presence that burns away impurities and refines character

Fire is Repentance or Judgement, Purification or Destruction, Approval or Disapproval

Good or Bad, Hot or Cold

Mal 3:2 But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap:

Application:

We will experience evil as fire throughout our journey; this burning allows God to purify our hearts and empower us to fulfill our destiny if we choose the right course.

There's a highway to hell but a stairway to heaven. This says a lot about the expected traffic.

Matthew 7:13-14: "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."

The devil is always prowling around, looking for someone to devour. He's waiting, watching, and hoping that "maybe this time, the trial" will cause you to give up hope.

I Peter 5:8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Personal Story of Emily (Name Changed)

Emily had always lived a life of quiet faith, attending church every Sunday and saying her prayers each night. But when her world was turned upside down by a series of personal tragedies—losing her job, her home, and the sudden death of her beloved father—she found herself in a crucible of despair. It felt like a relentless fire was testing her, each day more unbearable than the last. In her darkest moment, she knelt and cried out to God, feeling the weight of her trials pressing down on her. Then, she experienced a profound spiritual awakening, a spiritual burning, where the flames of her suffering refined her faith and trust in God. Through this intense process, Emily emerged stronger and more resilient; her spirit was purified, and her faith deepened, making her ready to face whatever came next with renewed hope and courage.

Biblical Instances of Fire as Trials and Judgments

Adam and Eve:

Adam and Eve had one command: not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Genesis 2:16-17

Despite this clear command, the serpent (often identified as Satan) tempted Eve, convincing her to eat the forbidden fruit. Genesis 3:1-6

The act of disobedience by Eve brought about a fundamental change in the relationship between God and his children. Evil came into the world. Genesis 3:7

Thus, it is necessary for God’s children to be purified by fire and tested.

The story of Adam and Eve is deeply applicable to our lives:

• Awareness of Temptation: We must be vigilant against the subtle temptations that lead us away from God's commands. Like Adam and Eve, we may be tempted to question God's word or think we know better than Him.
• Obedience to God: This story underscores the importance of obeying God's commandments. Even when His commands seem restrictive, they are given for our good and to protect us from harm.
• Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness: Although Adam and Eve faced evil and experienced severe consequences, God’s plan for redemption was already in motion. When trials or fires come, we must turn back to God in repentance, trusting in His mercy and the redemptive work of Christ.

Adam’s Punishment: The Seed Line of Cain

After Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden, they began living outside the garden.  It was during this time that children were born, Cain and Abel.  The story of Cain's birth and how evil manifested through him is pivotal in understanding the spread of sin and its consequences in the world. Genesis 4:1-2

The Escalation of Sin: Following the birth of Cain, sin quickly escalated to fratricide with Cain’s murder of Abel.

1 John 3:12: "Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous."

God continues to allow Cain to live: While Cain was justly punished for his sin, God’s protection over him (the mark of Cain) kept his seed line alive and allowed it to continue to be a chasing (fire) to God’s people.

The Testing continues today through various wicked people and wicked sin lines.

Guarding Against Sin: Like Cain, we must be vigilant in guarding our hearts against sin, particularly anger, jealousy, and resentment. If not checked by God's guidance, these emotions can lead us down a path of destruction.

Romans 5:12: "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned."

However, the Bible also points towards redemption and hope, offering the possibility of eternal life through faith and obedience to God.

Galatians 6:7-8 (KJV): "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting."

Abel’s Story Innocence and Suffering:

Abel’s story illustrates the reality that righteous people may suffer at the hands of others. Abel was innocent and yet was murdered by his brother Cain out of jealousy and anger. His suffering was not a result of his own wrongdoing but of Cain’s sin.

Hebrews 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

Sometimes, the righteous suffer unjustly. Abel’s story reminds us that suffering is not always a consequence of personal sin but can result from the sinfulness of others.

It also points to the importance of maintaining righteousness and faithfulness, even in the face of unjust suffering.

Genesis 19:24 - The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah

1. Context: Sodom and Gomorrah were cities known for their extreme wickedness and sinfulness, including sexual immorality and disregard for the vulnerable (Genesis 18:20-21; Ezekiel 16:49-50).
2. Lot, Abraham's nephew, lived in Sodom, and God sent two angels to rescue Lot and his family from the impending judgment (Genesis 19:1-16).
3. Judgment by Fire: God's righteous judgment fell upon Sodom and Gomorrah as fire and brimstone from heaven (Genesis 19:24-25). This catastrophic event served as a stark warning of the consequences of persistent sin and rebellion against God's moral law (Jude 1:7).
4. Lesson:
   1. The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah illustrates God's holiness and justice.
   2. It underscores the seriousness of sin and the certainty of divine judgment.
   3. It serves as a reminder that God will not tolerate unrepentant wickedness indefinitely but will ultimately execute judgment (2 Peter 2:6).
5. Application:
   1. As believers, we are called to live lives of holiness and righteousness, acknowledging God's standards and turning away from sin.
   2. The story of Sodom and Gomorrah challenges us to heed God's warnings and seek His mercy through repentance and faith in Christ (Romans 2:4-5).

Daniel 3:8-30 - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the Fiery Furnace

1. Context: Refusal to worship the golden image.
2. Lesson: Standing firm in faith despite severe trials.
3. Their response to the king's ultimatum (Daniel 3:13-18).
4. Emphasis on their faith in God's ability to save them.
5. Their declaration of loyalty to God regardless of the outcome.

The king’s reaction and the increased severity of the punishment (Daniel 3:19-23).

• Encouragement to stand firm in faith during personal trials.
• Trusting God's presence and protection in difficult times.
• The impact of unwavering faith on others around us.

Daniel 3:25 - "Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."

Joseph’s testing in prison

The story of Joseph in the Bible is a powerful narrative of wrongful punishment, testing, and eventual vindication. Joseph's experience, including his time in jail, offers profound lessons on faith, perseverance, and God's sovereignty.

1. Context: Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel, was favored by his father, which led to jealousy among his brothers. This jealousy culminated in them selling Joseph into slavery. He was taken to Egypt and sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. Genesis 37:3-4:
2. Wrongful Punishment and Being in Jail: Joseph was later falsely accused by Potiphar's wife of trying to seduce her, leading to his imprisonment. Genesis 39:7-9"And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled. And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison." Genesis 39:19-20 2. Testing:

3. Joseph's time in jail was a period of significant testing. Despite his circumstances, Joseph remained faithful to God. Even in prison, Joseph found favor with the prison keeper and was put in charge of other prisoners.

   But the Lord was with Joseph, and showed him mercy, and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison … the Lord made it to prosper." Genesis 39:21-23

   Lesson: The story of Joseph teaches several vital lessons:

   • God's Presence in Suffering: Joseph knew God was with him despite being wrongfully punished. His faith remained strong, and God’s favor continued to be upon him.
   • Integrity and Righteousness: Joseph’s refusal to sin with Potiphar’s wife, even though it led to his imprisonment, highlights the importance of maintaining integrity in the face of temptation.Patience and Trust in God’s Timing: Joseph’s journey shows God’s plans unfold in His timing. Joseph’s patience and faith eventually led to his rise to power in Egypt.
   • Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Later in the story, when Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt seeking food during a famine, Joseph forgives them, showing a spirit of reconciliation. Genesis 50:20 (KJV): "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save many people alive.
   1. Maintaining Faith in Difficult Times: Like Joseph, we should trust God’s presence and plan, even when circumstances seem unjust or challenging.
   2. Living with Integrity: Joseph’s commitment to righteousness, even when it cost him his freedom, encourages us to uphold integrity in our lives, regardless of the consequences.
   3. Believing in God’s Sovereignty: Joseph’s rise from a prisoner to the second-in-command of Egypt reminds us that God is in control and can bring good out of the most challenging situations.
   4. Practicing Forgiveness: Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers teaches us the power of letting go of past hurts and seeking reconciliation.

The story of Joseph is a testament to how God can use even the darkest circumstances for His purposes and our good.

King David and Bathsheba

The story of King David and his sin of adultery with Bathsheba, as well as the consequences of that sin, is a powerful narrative in the Bible. It reveals the dangers of sin, the justice of God's punishment, and the possibility of repentance and forgiveness.

• Context:: 
  David, the king of Israel, was a man after God's heart, known for his faithfulness and victories in battle. However, during a time when kings typically went out to battle, David stayed in Jerusalem. This decision set the stage for his sin. 2 Samuel 11:1-5 (KJV): 
  David saw Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, bathing and lusting after her. He sent for her and committed adultery with her, which resulted in her becoming pregnant. To cover up his sin, David attempted to bring Uriah back from battle, hoping he would sleep with his wife, but Uriah refused to do so while his comrades were in the field. David then plotted to have Uriah killed in battle. 2 Samuel 11:14-15 (KJV):
  Uriah was killed, and David took Bathsheba as his wife. However, the Lord was displeased with David's actions.
• Punishment:
  The prophet Nathan confronted David with a parable that exposed his sin, leading David to repent. However, there were severe consequences for his actions. 2 Samuel 12:7-10
  Nathan said to David, Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife."
  The immediate punishment was the death of the child born to David and Bathsheba.
  David's sin also brought his family long-term turmoil, including his son Absalom's rebellion.
• Lesson: The story of David’s sin teaches several important lessons:
  1. The Consequences of Sin: Sin, even when committed by someone as favored as David, has serious consequences. David's actions led to the death of an innocent man and brought calamity upon his household.
  2. The Danger of Complacency: David's fall began when he stayed behind in Jerusalem instead of leading his troops. This idleness led to temptation and sin, showing the importance of vigilance in our responsibilities.
  3. God’s Justice and Mercy: While God punished David for his sin, He also showed mercy by allowing David to live and continue his reign. This balance of justice and mercy highlights God’s righteousness.
  4. The Power of Repentance: Despite the gravity of his sin, David's sincere repentance is a crucial part of his story. His prayer in Psalm 51 is a model of true repentance
  5. Psalm 51:1-2 (KJV): "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin."
• Application: David's story provides important applications for our lives:

1. Guarding Against Temptation: Like David, we must be mindful of our actions and avoid situations where we may be tempted to sin. Staying engaged in our duties and seeking God’s help in times of weakness is crucial.
2. Understanding the Seriousness of Sin: Sin has consequences that can affect us and those around us. This story reminds us to consider the far-reaching effects of our actions.
3. Repenting Sincerely: It is vital to repent sincerely, as David did when we sin. True repentance involves acknowledging our wrongdoing, seeking God’s forgiveness, and turning away from sin.
4. Relying on God’s Mercy: God’s mercy is available even when we fail. David’s life shows that while God may discipline us for our sins, He is also willing to forgive and restore us when we turn back to Him with a contrite heart.

The story of David and Bathsheba is a sobering reminder of the dangers of sin and a powerful testimony of the possibilities of repentance and redemption.

• Corinthians 3:13 - Our Works Tested by Fire 
  Lesson: Our trials reveal the quality of our faith and work.
  Application: Trusting God through trials to refine and strengthen our faith.
• Hebrews 12:29 - Our God is a Consuming Fire
  Lesson: God's refining fire purifies us, leading to holiness.
  Application: Embrace the purification process to grow closer to God.
  Encouragement and Hope
• Isaiah 43:2 - God's Promise in Trials
  Verse: "When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee."
  Lesson: God's assurance of His presence and protection in our trials.
• Revelation 20:14-15 - The Final Victory over Evil
  Lesson: The ultimate triumph over sin and death through God's judgment.
  Application: Hope in the final victory through Christ.

Conclusion

My Story

My life took a drastic turn when a severe infection led to the decision to amputate my leg below the knee. Initially, I was engulfed by fear and despair, questioning why such a trial had befallen me. However, during my recovery, I experienced a profound sense of God's presence and peace. Friends, family, strangers, and CI ministry offered support and encouragement. I found new strength in my faith, recognizing that God’s glory shone through the compassion and love I received from God and others. As I adapted to my new life, I received power from the Holy Spirit to transform adversity into a story of hope and resilience. I can still drive, work, and attend church with my new leg.

Take the trail by fire in your life and change it into victory.

Let the work of purification prepare you for your destiny

When trials (fire) come, embrace them and let God fulfill your destiny.