Salvation from sin is similar to a matchstick combustion.

Salvation from sin is similar to a matchstick combustion because justification is a powerful event that is both sparkling and dangerous; it emits light among darkness and is a single event that is truly awe-inspiring.

The image of fire and light is common in Scripture. God is called the Father of lights. In fact, in the Old Testament, God revealed Himself as a fire in a desert, which is described in the story of Moses and the burning bush. In the New Testament, divided tongues “as fire” sat upon the disciples during Pentecost when they were indwelled with the Holy Spirit.

Those that are justified are called be light to the world rather than hiding their light “beneath a bowl” of mediocrity. During the sanctification process, Scripture helps believers by illumining their minds to provide spiritual discernment and encouragement. Today, you hear obedient believers say they are “on fire” for God, which is a sign for personal closeness with God.

Although fire is often portrayed as a wonderful entity in Scripture, it is also the primary image used for hell. Here is where the concept of a flame is contrasted between two entirely distinct references: God’s ability to redeem as Father of lights and God’s ability to punish wrath by sustaining the lake of fire. There are no other options. People must either choose life or death, light or darkness, the gentle warmth of God’s love or the blistering fire of judgment. Even the justified must either choose illumination or marred vision, being aflame or being apathetic, breathing life or simply “blowing smoke.”

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