PM Scripture Reading: Mal. 3:2-3

David M. Fiddament

THE REFINER’S FIRE

Introduction:

1. The “Miller Process” gold refining technique purifies gold using chlorine gas and high temperatures.

2. Gold has always been refined and tested by fire.

3. In the same way, Christians are purified and tested with Godly fire!

4. Will we be able to withstand the Refiner’s fire?

I. PURIFIED BY FIRE

A. Sin leaves a stain on our souls. (Psa. 51:2)

B. The only cleansing agent is fire, or in our case; water. (Mal. 3:1-3; Eph. 5:25-27; 1 Pet. 1:22-23; Acts 22:16; Heb. 9:14)

C. We are made to match the gold standard. (Rom. 3:21-24)

II. TESTED BY FIRE

A. We will experience hard times. (Eccl. 9:11; 1 Pet. 4:12)

B. Job was tested. (Job 23:10-12)

C. Enduring the test will yield rewards.

1. Character, (Rom. 5:3-4; James 1:2-4, 12)

2. Salvation! (1 Pet. 1:6-9)

D. Work to maintain the gold standard. (1 Cor. 3:11-15)

1. Will we base our standard on people?

2. Only those founded on Christ can endure.

III. SORTED FOR FIRE

A. The wealth of purified gold is visible. (Gal. 5:22-24; Zech. 13:7-9)

B. The wheat will be sorted from the chaff. Fire is reserved for the fruitless. (Matt. 3:10-12)

Conclusion: Have you been purified and refined by God?