A Church Set On Fire For God Series

A CHURCH SET ON FIRE FOR GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 5:14-16

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Supporting Texts: Acts 2:1-4, Romans 12:11, 2 Timothy 1:6, Revelation 3:15-16, Leviticus 6:12-13

INTRODUCTION

A church that is set on fire for God is one that burns with passion for Him, radiates His presence, and impacts the world. Such a church is not lukewarm or passive but actively spreads the gospel, transforms lives, and advances God’s kingdom. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus described believers as the light of the world, meant to shine brightly and influence society.

The early church in Acts 2 was a model of a church on fire—filled with the Holy Spirit, bold in preaching, and fervent in prayer. Today, God is calling His church to rekindle the fire, reject complacency, and be a beacon of His power and glory. This message explores what it means for a church to be on fire for God and how to ignite that fire.

1. CHARACTERISTICS OF A CHURCH ON FIRE FOR GOD

A church that is truly burning for God exhibits distinct qualities.

a) A strong prayer life – A church on fire is a praying church (Acts 4:31).

b) Passionate evangelism – It actively seeks to win souls (Mark 16:15).

c) Genuine love and unity – Members walk in love and selflessness (John 13:35).

d) Manifestation of God’s power – Signs, wonders, and miracles follow (Acts 2:43).

e) Biblical Example: The Early Church – The believers in Acts 2 demonstrated all these characteristics, leading to rapid growth (Acts 2:42-47).

2. DANGERS OF A LUKEWARM CHURCH

A church without fire becomes ineffective and unfruitful.

a) Spiritual complacency – A lack of zeal leads to stagnation (Revelation 3:15-16).

b) Loss of spiritual influence – A church without fire cannot impact the world (Matthew 5:13).

c) Absence of divine power – Without the fire, miracles and transformation cease (Judges 16:20).

d) Infiltration of worldliness – The church begins to resemble the world (James 4:4).

e) Biblical Example: The Church in Laodicea – This church was rebuked for being lukewarm and warned of impending judgment (Revelation 3:15-17).

3. HOW TO IGNITE THE FIRE OF GOD IN THE CHURCH

The fire of God must be rekindled through intentional steps.

a) Return to fervent prayer and fasting – Prayer fuels spiritual fire (Leviticus 6:12, Acts 1:14).

b) Preach the unadulterated Word of God – The truth sets people ablaze for God (Jeremiah 23:29).

c) Encourage the baptism and infilling of the Holy Spirit – The Holy Spirit empowers the church (Acts 2:3-4).

d) Promote holiness and righteousness – Sin quenches the fire of God (Hebrews 12:14).

e) Biblical Example: Elijah on Mount Carmel – Elijah rebuilt the altar and called down God’s fire, demonstrating His power (1 Kings 18:30-39).

4. RESULTS OF A CHURCH ON FIRE FOR GOD

When a church is truly burning for God, transformation occurs.

a) Supernatural revival and growth – The church expands as people are drawn to the fire (Acts 2:41).

b) Greater manifestations of God’s power – Miracles, healings, and breakthroughs become common (Mark 16:20).

c) Deeper hunger for righteousness – People develop a stronger desire for God (Psalm 42:1-2).

d) Kingdom impact and societal transformation – A fiery church influences its community (Acts 17:6).

e) Biblical Example: The Revival in Samaria – When Philip preached in Samaria, great joy filled the city due to the manifestations of God’s power (Acts 8:5-8).

CONCLUSION

The church was never meant to be cold or lukewarm but to burn brightly for God. A church on fire will transform lives, shake the kingdom of darkness, and bring revival. However, this fire must be constantly maintained through prayer, holiness, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Will you be a part of this movement? It’s time to set the church ablaze again!

PRAYER POINTS

1.  Lord, set my heart and Your church on fire for You.

2.  Holy Spirit, remove every form of lukewarmness from our midst.

3.  Father, rekindle the passion for prayer, evangelism, and holiness in the church.

4.  Lord, let Your power and glory be evident in our church.

5.  Holy Spirit, use us as instruments of revival in this generation.