Sermon Central
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Keeping The Fire Burning
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Mar 27, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: The fire of God in our lives must not be allowed to die out. Just as the priests in the Old Testament were instructed to keep the altar fire burning continually, we must ensure that our passion for God remains alive.
KEEPING THE FIRE BURNING
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Leviticus 6:13
Supporting Texts: Romans 12:11, Matthew 25:1-13, 2 Timothy 1:6, Acts 2:1-4, 1 Thessalonians 5:19
INTRODUCTION
Fire is a symbol of God's presence, power, and passion in the life of a believer. In Leviticus 6:13, God commanded that the fire on the altar must never go out. This was a divine instruction given to the priests as a continuous responsibility, symbolising a life of sustained devotion and commitment to God. In the New Testament, the fire of God represents the Holy Spirit working in the lives of believers.
Every Christian is called to keep their spiritual fire burning. The early church was ignited with fire on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4), but they did not stop there. They continued steadfastly in prayer, in the Word, and in fellowship, keeping the fire alive. However, many believers today struggle with spiritual dryness, lukewarmness, and loss of passion for God.
Keeping the fire burning requires deliberate effort. It is not automatic; it requires prayer, discipline, and a heart that continually seeks after God. In this sermon, we will explore how to keep the fire of God burning in our lives and avoid the dangers of spiritual coldness.
1. THE MEANING OF THE FIRE ON THE ALTAR
The fire on the altar had deep spiritual significance in both the Old and New Testaments.
a) The fire represents God's presence (Exodus 3:2)
God revealed Himself to Moses through a burning bush, showing that His presence is like fire.
b) The fire symbolises purity and holiness (Isaiah 6:6-7)
God's fire cleanses and refines, removing impurities from our lives.
c) The fire signifies passion and zeal for God (Romans 12:11)
A burning fire represents fervency in serving the Lord.
d) The fire represents the Holy Spirit's empowerment (Acts 2:3-4)
On the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples as tongues of fire.
e) Biblical Example: Elijah’s Fire on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:36-39)
God answered Elijah with fire, demonstrating His power and approval.
2. WHY SPIRITUAL FIRE GOES OUT
Many believers lose their spiritual fire over time due to various reasons.
a) Lack of prayer and devotion (Luke 18:1)
A weak prayer life leads to spiritual coldness.
b) Sin and compromise (Isaiah 59:1-2)
Sin separates us from God and quenches the fire of the Holy Spirit.
c) Worldly distractions (1 John 2:15-17)
When the love for the world increases, passion for God decreases.
d) Neglect of fellowship and the Word (Hebrews 10:25)
Isolation and lack of feeding on God’s Word cause spiritual dryness.
e) Biblical Example: The Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)
They allowed their lamps to go out because they failed to prepare and keep the oil.
3. HOW TO KEEP THE FIRE BURNING
To maintain spiritual fire, we must follow biblical principles.
a) Maintain a consistent prayer life (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Prayer fuels the fire of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
b) Stay in the Word of God (Joshua 1:8)
The Word of God is like fuel that keeps the fire burning in our hearts.
c) Be filled continually with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18)
Staying filled with the Spirit keeps us burning for God.
d) Serve God with zeal and commitment (Romans 12:11)
Actively engaging in God's work keeps our passion alive.
e) Biblical Example: Timothy Stirring Up the Gift (2 Timothy 1:6)
Paul encouraged Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God in him.
4. THE DANGERS OF LOSING SPIRITUAL FIRE
Losing the fire of God leads to serious spiritual consequences.
a) Lukewarmness and spiritual stagnation (Revelation 3:15-16)
Jesus warned against being neither hot nor cold.
b) Weakness in overcoming sin and temptation (Galatians 5:16)
A cold Christian easily falls into sin.
c) Loss of spiritual authority and power (Judges 16:20)
Samson lost his power when he lost his consecration.
d) Decreased passion for God's work (John 9:4)
Without fire, the urgency for evangelism and service fades.
e) Biblical Example: The Church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:4-5)
They lost their first love and were warned to repent.
5. HOW TO REVIVE A DYING SPIRITUAL FIRE
If your fire is going out, you can rekindle it with God's help.
a) Return to your first love for God (Revelation 2:5)
Remember where you fell and go back to your passion for God.
b) Repent and seek personal revival (Joel 2:12-13)
Confess your sins and seek God with all your heart.
c) Surround yourself with spiritually on-fire believers (Proverbs 27:17)
Fellowship with those who will encourage and strengthen your faith.
d) Engage in regular fasting and spiritual discipline (Isaiah 58:6-8)
Fasting renews our spiritual strength and passion.
e) Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son Returning (Luke 15:17-24)
He realised his condition and made a decision to return to his father.
CONCLUSION
The fire of God in our lives must not be allowed to die out. Just as the priests in the Old Testament were instructed to keep the altar fire burning continually, we must ensure that our passion for God remains alive. A Christian without fire becomes ineffective, weak, and vulnerable to spiritual attacks.
