1 Corinthians 3:13
Verse
Context
Christ Our Foundation
12If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,13his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man’s work.14If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire - There is much difference of opinion relative to the meaning of the terms in this and the two following verses. That the apostle refers to the approaching destruction of Jerusalem I think very probable; and when this is considered, all the terms and metaphors will appear clear and consistent. The day is the time of punishment coming on this disobedient and rebellious people. And this day being revealed by fire, points out the extreme rigour, and totally destructive nature, of that judgment. And the fire shall try every man's work - If the apostle refers to the Judaizing teachers and their insinuations that the law, especially circumcision, was of eternal obligation; then the day of fire - the time of vengeance, which was at hand, would sufficiently disprove such assertions; as, in the judgment of God, the whole temple service should be destroyed; and the people, who fondly presumed on their permanence and stability, should be dispossessed of their land and scattered over the face of the whole earth. The difference of the Christian and Jewish systems should then be seen: the latter should be destroyed in that fiery day, and the former prevail more than ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Every man's work--each teacher's superstructure on the foundation. the day--of the Lord (Co1 1:8; Heb 10:25; Th1 5:4). The article is emphatic, "The day," that is, the great day of days, the long expected day. declare it--old English for "make it clear" (Co1 4:4). it shall be revealed by fire--it, that is, "every man's work." Rather, "He," the Lord, whose day it is (Th2 1:7-8). Translate literally, "is being revealed (the present in the Greek implies the certainty and nearness of the event, Rev 22:10, Rev 22:20) in fire" (Mal 3:3; Mal 4:1). The fire (probably figurative here, as the gold, hay, &c.) is not purgatory (as Rome teaches, that is, purificatory and punitive), but probatory, not restricted to those dying in "venial sin"; the supposed intermediate class between those entering heaven at once, and those dying in mortal sin who go to hell, but universal, testing the godly and ungodly alike (Co2 5:10; compare Mar 9:49). This fire is not till the last day, the supposed fire of purgatory begins at death. The fire of Paul is to try the works, the fire of purgatory the persons, of men. Paul's fire causes "loss" to the sufferers; Rome's purgatory, great gain, namely, heaven at last to those purged by it, if only it were true. Thus this passage, quoted by Rome for, is altogether against, purgatory. "It was not this doctrine that gave rise to prayers for the dead; but the practice of praying for the dead [which crept in from the affectionate but mistaken solicitude of survivors] gave rise to the doctrine" [WHATELY].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every man's work shall be made manifest,.... The doctrine he preaches shall be sooner or later made manifest to himself, and to his hearers; who shall see the inconsistency, irregularity, and deformity of such a building; at first so well laid, then piled up with such excellent materials, and at last covered in with such trifling or incoherent stuff: for the day shall declare it; meaning not the day of judgment, though that is often called the day, or that day, and will be attended with fire, and in it all secrets shall be made manifest; but the apostle intends a discovery that will be made of doctrines in this world, before that time comes: wherefore this day rather designs a day of tribulation; as of persecution, which tries men's principles, whether they are solid or not; and of error and heresy, when men are put upon a re-examination of their doctrines, whereby persons and truths that are approved are made manifest; or of some great calamity, such as the destruction of Jerusalem, whereby many wrong notions the Jews yet retained were discovered: but it is best of all to understand this day of the Gospel day, and of the progress of Gospel light, especially in some particular periods of it; as in the primitive times, at the reformation from popery, and the more remarkable Gospel daylight, which will be in the latter times, when the impertinence and inconsistency of many things which now obtain in the ministry will be seen; see Eph 5:13. Because it shall be revealed by fire: not that day, but the man's work, or doctrine: and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is; by the fire is meant, not the general conflagration of the world, when that, and all that is therein, will be burnt up; much less the fire of purgatory, the "papists" dream of, for the punishment of evil actions; for the apostle is not speaking of the actions of men, good or bad, but of the doctrines of ministers; rather the fire of tribulation and affliction, which, as it is for the trial of the grace of faith, so of the doctrine of faith, whereby it becomes much more precious than of gold that perisheth; or of some fiery dispensation of God's vengeance, as on Jerusalem: though the word of God, which is as fire, seems to be intended; which in some certain times so blazes forth, and will more especially in the latter day, that by the light of it, both ministers and churches will be able to see clearly the bright shining lustre of the gold, silver, and precious stones; and with so much heat, as to burn up the wood, hay, and stubble; when the difference between these things will be most easily discerned.
1 Corinthians 3:13
Christ Our Foundation
12If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,13his workmanship will be evident, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will prove the quality of each man’s work.14If what he has built survives, he will receive a reward.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Washed With Fire
By Leonard Ravenhill12K1:18:02Baptism Of The Holy SpiritISA 40:4MAT 3:11LUK 3:16JHN 3:161CO 3:13HEB 12:29REV 3:15In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a woman who worked in Africa and lived in a humble bamboo house. Despite facing potential dangers in the jungle, she had faith and trusted in God's protection. The preacher also talks about attending a meeting where people were sleeping and the preacher couldn't continue. However, a little woman with her legs swinging kept the energy alive. The sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and highlights the unique qualities of John the Baptist, who was a powerful and influential figure in spreading the message of repentance.
Judgement Seat of Believers
By Leonard Ravenhill7.0K1:20:18Judgment Seat Of ChristEXO 28:17MAT 12:36ROM 8:11CO 3:13JUD 1:6REV 21:4In this sermon transcript, the preacher describes a dream of a great judgment morning at a camp, where the nations gather before the white throne for judgment. The preacher emphasizes the importance of using time wisely and not wasting it, citing the example of a man who diligently studied even while riding on horseback. The preacher also emphasizes that rewards in eternity must be earned and that there is no free pass into heaven. The sermon concludes with a description of the judgment seat of life, where people from all walks of life, including rich and powerful individuals, will stand trembling before Jesus Christ.
The Judgement Seat of Christ
By Erwin Lutzer5.5K43:24MAT 6:33LUK 19:171CO 3:132CO 5:10HEB 11:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that our faithfulness on earth will determine our position in the eternal kingdom. He highlights the importance of being faithful in all aspects of life, including finances. The speaker also emphasizes that we will be judged individually and thoroughly by God, who will reveal the motives of our hearts. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that even small acts of love and kindness will be rewarded by God.
The Voice of Gods Judgement
By A.W. Tozer4.8K46:24Gods JudgementMAT 6:33ROM 14:121CO 3:131CO 4:52CO 5:102TI 4:1HEB 9:27In this sermon, the preacher discusses the parable of the talents from Matthew 25. He emphasizes that each person is given different abilities and resources according to their own ability. The preacher warns that there will come a time when everyone will have to give an account of their deeds and how they used their talents. He emphasizes the importance of self-judgment and not relying on others or external factors to determine one's spiritual standing. The preacher also acknowledges the challenges and darkness of the times we live in but encourages the congregation to see them as opportunities for testing and proving their faith, just like Daniel and his companions in Babylon.
Puritan Evangelism
By Al Martin4.0K1:20:28GEN 1:1ISA 59:2MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 3:241CO 3:132TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing his personal journey into ministry and the importance of preaching the word of God. He then quotes J.I. Packer and Thomas Manton to emphasize the true essence of the gospel, which involves repentance, faith, reconciliation with God, and the promise of eternal happiness for believers. The speaker highlights the symmetry and doctrinal depth of Puritan evangelism, contrasting it with the shortcomings of modern evangelism. He emphasizes the need for a scriptural and theological approach to preaching, clearly defining concepts such as sin and its consequences.
Sanctification: 1. a Pure Spirit
By Zac Poonen2.1K51:35Worship in SpiritSanctificationPRO 3:5MAT 5:8MAT 15:13JHN 4:24ROM 8:21CO 3:132CO 7:11TH 4:31TH 5:231JN 2:27Zac Poonen emphasizes the significance of sanctification, particularly the need for a pure spirit in our relationship with God. He highlights that true worship must come from the spirit, not merely from outward actions, and that maintaining a pure spirit is essential for experiencing God's presence and guidance. Poonen warns against the dangers of prioritizing work over worship and stresses that sanctification is God's work in us, requiring our submission. He encourages believers to cultivate a deep, intimate relationship with God, which will lead to discernment and a life that reflects His holiness.
Dvd 20 - the Antioch Pattern
By Art Katz1.8K2:02:48ACT 13:2ROM 11:111CO 3:13EPH 5:221PE 4:12This sermon emphasizes the importance of challenging the issue of history and generations, highlighting the power of uncalculated prayers and trusting God's promptings. It delves into the concept of apostolic sending and the necessity of enduring sacrifice, suffering, and opposition for works with eternal significance. The message also touches on the church's role in relation to Israel's restoration and the call to submission and surrender for God's greater purposes.
Travailing - Part 5
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K09:02JHN 15:1JHN 16:13JHN 17:1ACT 17:161CO 3:13REV 21:4This sermon delves into the profound teachings found in the 15th, 16th, and 17th chapters of John, emphasizing the significance of Jesus as the true vine, the Holy Ghost's unique role, and the depth of prayer exemplified by Jesus in Gethsemane. It also explores the courage and conviction of Paul in Acts 17 as he fearlessly proclaims the Gospel to intellectuals, contrasting the arrogance of those who reject God's authority. The message underscores the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty, resurrection, and the need for spiritual revival in a time of moral and spiritual crisis.
Time to Wake Up (Compilation)
By Compilations1.5K10:022CH 7:14MAL 3:16MAT 7:21MAT 24:44ROM 2:51CO 3:13HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 1:15REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance and returning to the foundational truths of the Gospel. It challenges the modern church to move away from diluted messages and shallow experiences, urging believers to seek holiness and a genuine relationship with God. The speaker warns against complacency, hypocrisy, and the dangers of a watered-down gospel that fails to address sin and the need for genuine transformation.
Ger-05 Israel's Predicament
By Art Katz1.5K1:05:18GermanEXO 12:8ISA 5:25ISA 5:30MAT 6:33ACT 3:22ROM 11:221CO 3:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the issue of God's glory and his governance over creation. He shares a personal experience of visiting a plant where F-16 fighter bombers are manufactured and expresses concern over nations spending vast amounts on armaments, even those who can least afford it. The speaker emphasizes the need to understand the severity and goodness of God, as well as the importance of recognizing God's judgments as part of his mercy. He also shares his own journey of experiencing unexpected challenges and being thrust into the world, drawing parallels to Israel's history and the need for repentance.
(Divine Attributes) 11 the Righteous Judgment of Almighty God
By Denny Kenaston1.4K57:43Character Of GodMAT 6:33ROM 1:18ROM 2:51CO 3:132CO 5:111PE 4:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of judgment and the role of a judge in a court of law. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and facing the consequences. The preacher also highlights the idea that judgment begins in the house of God, as mentioned in Corinthians and Peter. He references the book of Romans to illustrate God's righteous judgment and the importance of recognizing God's holiness.
Without Wax
By Jack Hyles1.4K41:45Hypocrisy1CO 3:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the truth and feeding the congregation. He shares a personal story about a shepherd he met in Colorado who loved his sheep enough to preach the truth to them and take care of their physical needs. The speaker also highlights the significance of being a good witness for Christ by maintaining cleanliness and decency. He mentions that despite his straightforward preaching, the congregation grew to like him. The sermon concludes with a humorous anecdote about a small television set in the choir area that displays the scores of the Bears and Cowboys football games.
An Invitation to Follow Him
By K.P. Yohannan1.2K20:29Following JesusIntimacy With GodGEN 1:26PSA 42:7ISA 40:31EZK 22:30MRK 1:17JHN 4:34JHN 5:19JHN 15:4ACT 1:41CO 3:13K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the profound invitation from Jesus to follow Him, which transcends mere evangelism and calls for a life of obedience and surrender to God's will. He reflects on how Jesus lived in total dependence on the Father, demonstrating that our actions should stem from a deep relationship with God rather than mere duty or need. Yohannan illustrates this with the story of three stonecutters, highlighting the importance of understanding the 'why' behind our actions. He urges believers to prioritize intimacy with God, as true ministry flows from a life that reflects Christ's love and purpose. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live as Jesus did, focusing on eternal values rather than worldly distractions.
04 Golden Age Conference
By Bob Beers87141:05ConferenceLUK 16:19LUK 23:341CO 3:13PHP 1:21PHP 3:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of there being no more tears in heaven. He expresses joy and gratitude for the fellowship and ministry experienced at a conference, but also acknowledges the sadness of saying goodbye to fellow believers. The preacher highlights the idea that in heaven, there will be no more separation or goodbyes, and therefore, no more tears. The sermon also briefly mentions the absence of other earthly experiences such as thickets and honey. Overall, the message conveys the hope and assurance of eternal joy and unity in the presence of God.
God Would Not Rub So Hard
By Thomas Brooks0AfflictionsSpiritual PurificationPSA 66:10PRO 17:3ISA 1:25MAL 3:2ROM 5:31CO 3:132CO 4:17HEB 12:6JAS 1:21PE 1:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes that God uses afflictions as a means to cleanse and purify His people, comparing them to fire that burns away impurities and dross. He illustrates that just as fire freed the three champions from their cords, afflictions can liberate Christians from their vanities and sins. Brooks explains that these trials serve various purposes, such as purging, washing, and refining, ultimately leading to a more radiant faith. He reassures that God's intense discipline is a sign of His love and desire for purity in our hearts.
The Scripture View of the Present State of Man
By Thomas Reade0PSA 14:2JER 17:9MAT 7:24MAT 15:8MRK 7:20LUK 6:46ROM 2:61CO 3:13HEB 4:12REV 2:23Thomas Reade preaches about the sinful state of man as depicted in the Scriptures, emphasizing the necessity of divine illumination and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to understand and acknowledge our wretched condition. The sermon highlights the importance of an inward change of heart and the deceitful nature of the human heart, as described by various prophets and Jesus himself. It calls for humility, self-examination, and a deep desire for God's transformative work in our lives, stressing the need to love the Lord wholeheartedly and seek a radical change from within.
The Spirit of Fire
By Samuel Chadwick0LEV 9:24NUM 3:4MAT 3:11LUK 12:49ACT 1:8ACT 2:3ROM 12:111CO 3:13HEB 12:29JUD 1:23Samuel Chadwick preaches about the significance of fire as a symbol of God's presence and approval, emphasizing the importance of true worship and devotion. He warns against offering 'strange fire' in place of God's fire, which leads to spiritual death and the secularization of the sanctuary. Chadwick highlights the necessity of the Holy Ghost fire in the Church, describing it as the ultimate gift of God that brings moral and spiritual passion, transforming believers into burning and shining lights for Christ. He stresses that true religion is characterized by fervent devotion, righteousness, and a consuming desire to save the lost, and that the Church's power lies in being clothed with the zeal of the Holy Ghost.
(Living as Jesus Lived) 8. Living for the Glory of God
By Zac Poonen0JHN 12:27JHN 14:12JHN 17:4ROM 11:361CO 3:132CO 3:17PHP 2:11Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of living and laboring for the glory of God alone. He emphasizes that all things were created by God to bring glory to Him, not because God selfishly desires our glory, but for our highest good. Jesus exemplified seeking the Father's glory in all He did, living a life where everything was sacred and done for God's glory. Poonen highlights the distinction between spiritual service that glorifies God and soulish service that exalts self, warning against drawing attention to ourselves rather than to God. He challenges believers to examine their motives, as the value of our actions lies in why we do them, stressing the need to serve with humility and without seeking personal recognition.
What Will Remain?
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 66:10ISA 48:10MAL 3:31CO 3:131PE 1:7J.C. Philpot preaches about the refining fire that tests every man's work, not just as God's wrath in the last day, but also as the fiery trials experienced in this life. These trials, sent by God through afflictions and temptations, burn up the superficial and reveal the genuineness of one's faith. The fiery trial exposes the inadequacy of worldly refuges and highlights the enduring nature of God's work in the soul, like gold refined in a furnace.
Letter 110
By James Bourne0PSA 18:2PRO 3:111CO 3:13HEB 12:1JAS 4:7James Bourne preaches about the danger of spiritual complacency and the consequences of not fully surrendering to God. He reflects on the despair of someone who seemed to have a strong faith but ultimately fell away, emphasizing the importance of genuine humility, simplicity, and quietness in spirit. Bourne urges his listeners to seek refuge in Jesus Christ, to be vigilant against known sins, and to heed God's warnings in order to avoid spiritual downfall.
On the Day of Judgment
By Thomas Reade0PSA 37:37MAT 25:1MAT 25:321CO 3:13PHP 1:61TH 5:22TI 3:12REV 22:12Thomas Reade preaches about the imminent Day of Judgment, emphasizing the importance of preparing for this significant event that will bring final separation between the righteous and the wicked. He warns against self-deception, revealing that many who appeared righteous will be exposed for their hidden sins and lack of true faith. Reade highlights the persecution and trials that believers may face, urging them to endure and remain faithful to Christ, even in the face of opposition. He contrasts the fate of those who deny Christ for worldly reasons with the blessedness of the righteous who will be transformed and dwell with the Lord forever.
Epistle 67
By George Fox0MAL 2:5MAT 19:6JHN 3:21ROM 7:5ROM 13:121CO 3:13EPH 2:3EPH 2:81TI 4:1HEB 13:4George Fox preaches about the sanctity of marriage in the light of God, emphasizing that only marriages within the Lord and in the light are honorable and approved by the children of light. Those who follow the desires of the flesh and engage in adultery are considered to be outside the light and not in an honorable marriage. The children of light are encouraged to let their light shine before others, upholding honorable marriages and condemning actions contrary to the light.
A Clean Church
By Seth Rees0PSA 51:10PRO 4:23MAL 3:2MAT 3:11MAT 5:8ACT 15:91CO 3:13JAS 4:81PE 1:22Seth Rees preaches on the purification of hearts by faith, emphasizing that holiness is a state achieved through the experience of entire sanctification by the Holy Ghost. This sanctifying process is symbolized by the baptism with the Holy Ghost and fire, cleansing the heart intrinsically. The Pentecostal fire is necessary to purify the soul from all impurities, doubts, and unbelief, bringing a bracing and invigorating spiritual atmosphere.
The Father Commits All Judgment Unto the Son
By Paris Reidhead0JOL 2:25MAT 22:37JHN 5:22JHN 17:5ACT 17:30ROM 2:161CO 3:13Paris Reidhead preaches about the importance of living a life that glorifies Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need for believers to examine their motives and actions in light of the coming Judgment Seat of Christ. He highlights that all judgment has been committed to the Son, Jesus Christ, who will evaluate every deed based on the motive behind it. Reidhead stresses the significance of repentance and surrendering to God's will, ensuring that every aspect of life is dedicated to glorifying Christ. He warns against allowing sin and disobedience to mar the pattern of one's life, urging listeners to seek forgiveness and restoration in Christ.
Does First Corinthians 12 Mean the Universal Church
By A.W. Pink0MAT 12:36MAT 20:31CO 3:132CO 5:10GAL 6:10TIT 1:12JAS 2:202PE 1:52PE 3:18Greek Word Studies delves into the meaning of 'argos,' which signifies being without work, ineffective, unproductive, or worthless. The term is used in the New Testament to describe idleness, laziness, and unprofitability, emphasizing the importance of faith accompanied by works. A life without good deeds is likened to barren land or money gaining no interest, failing to fulfill its purpose for God. Believers are encouraged to grow in virtues and do good to others, ensuring their lives are not useless or ineffective.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire - There is much difference of opinion relative to the meaning of the terms in this and the two following verses. That the apostle refers to the approaching destruction of Jerusalem I think very probable; and when this is considered, all the terms and metaphors will appear clear and consistent. The day is the time of punishment coming on this disobedient and rebellious people. And this day being revealed by fire, points out the extreme rigour, and totally destructive nature, of that judgment. And the fire shall try every man's work - If the apostle refers to the Judaizing teachers and their insinuations that the law, especially circumcision, was of eternal obligation; then the day of fire - the time of vengeance, which was at hand, would sufficiently disprove such assertions; as, in the judgment of God, the whole temple service should be destroyed; and the people, who fondly presumed on their permanence and stability, should be dispossessed of their land and scattered over the face of the whole earth. The difference of the Christian and Jewish systems should then be seen: the latter should be destroyed in that fiery day, and the former prevail more than ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Every man's work--each teacher's superstructure on the foundation. the day--of the Lord (Co1 1:8; Heb 10:25; Th1 5:4). The article is emphatic, "The day," that is, the great day of days, the long expected day. declare it--old English for "make it clear" (Co1 4:4). it shall be revealed by fire--it, that is, "every man's work." Rather, "He," the Lord, whose day it is (Th2 1:7-8). Translate literally, "is being revealed (the present in the Greek implies the certainty and nearness of the event, Rev 22:10, Rev 22:20) in fire" (Mal 3:3; Mal 4:1). The fire (probably figurative here, as the gold, hay, &c.) is not purgatory (as Rome teaches, that is, purificatory and punitive), but probatory, not restricted to those dying in "venial sin"; the supposed intermediate class between those entering heaven at once, and those dying in mortal sin who go to hell, but universal, testing the godly and ungodly alike (Co2 5:10; compare Mar 9:49). This fire is not till the last day, the supposed fire of purgatory begins at death. The fire of Paul is to try the works, the fire of purgatory the persons, of men. Paul's fire causes "loss" to the sufferers; Rome's purgatory, great gain, namely, heaven at last to those purged by it, if only it were true. Thus this passage, quoted by Rome for, is altogether against, purgatory. "It was not this doctrine that gave rise to prayers for the dead; but the practice of praying for the dead [which crept in from the affectionate but mistaken solicitude of survivors] gave rise to the doctrine" [WHATELY].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every man's work shall be made manifest,.... The doctrine he preaches shall be sooner or later made manifest to himself, and to his hearers; who shall see the inconsistency, irregularity, and deformity of such a building; at first so well laid, then piled up with such excellent materials, and at last covered in with such trifling or incoherent stuff: for the day shall declare it; meaning not the day of judgment, though that is often called the day, or that day, and will be attended with fire, and in it all secrets shall be made manifest; but the apostle intends a discovery that will be made of doctrines in this world, before that time comes: wherefore this day rather designs a day of tribulation; as of persecution, which tries men's principles, whether they are solid or not; and of error and heresy, when men are put upon a re-examination of their doctrines, whereby persons and truths that are approved are made manifest; or of some great calamity, such as the destruction of Jerusalem, whereby many wrong notions the Jews yet retained were discovered: but it is best of all to understand this day of the Gospel day, and of the progress of Gospel light, especially in some particular periods of it; as in the primitive times, at the reformation from popery, and the more remarkable Gospel daylight, which will be in the latter times, when the impertinence and inconsistency of many things which now obtain in the ministry will be seen; see Eph 5:13. Because it shall be revealed by fire: not that day, but the man's work, or doctrine: and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is; by the fire is meant, not the general conflagration of the world, when that, and all that is therein, will be burnt up; much less the fire of purgatory, the "papists" dream of, for the punishment of evil actions; for the apostle is not speaking of the actions of men, good or bad, but of the doctrines of ministers; rather the fire of tribulation and affliction, which, as it is for the trial of the grace of faith, so of the doctrine of faith, whereby it becomes much more precious than of gold that perisheth; or of some fiery dispensation of God's vengeance, as on Jerusalem: though the word of God, which is as fire, seems to be intended; which in some certain times so blazes forth, and will more especially in the latter day, that by the light of it, both ministers and churches will be able to see clearly the bright shining lustre of the gold, silver, and precious stones; and with so much heat, as to burn up the wood, hay, and stubble; when the difference between these things will be most easily discerned.