Who Can Dwell With the Consuming Fire? Traits of Unshakable Believers

·48 min·4 clips

Bishop Joseph Mattera reveals 10 traits of those who dwell with the consuming fire, based on Isaiah 33.

Bishop Joseph Mattera introduces a new sermon on 10 traits of those who dwell with the consuming fire, drawing from Isaiah 33 and Psalm 15. He begins by addressing hyper-grace teachings in modern Christianity, criticizing figures like Joseph Prince and Andy Stanley for downplaying the Old Testament's moral law. Mattera argues that the grace of God calls for holy living, referencing Titus chapter 2. He then delves into theological foundations, explaining that God is a consuming fire who purifies the righteous, citing St. Maximus the Confessor. The episode explores the concept of the cosmic temple from Genesis 1, where creation is depicted as a liturgical service leading to worship. Mattera describes the Garden of Eden as the holy place where God and man walked together, and he links this to Jesus as the last Adam who reconciles heaven and earth. He discusses portals like altars, Jacob's ladder, and the tabernacle as microcosms of this cosmic temple. Mattera emphasizes that Christians are called to participate in renewing all things, not just personal salvation. He outlines practical traits from the scriptures, including walking blamelessly, speaking truth in the heart, avoiding gossip, and resisting corruption. The episode highlights early church practices where converts underwent a two- to three-year catechumen process before joining services, emphasizing habitus over instant conversion. Mattera also covers traits like honoring the God-fearing, keeping covenants, guarding senses from evil, and not being swayed by money. He concludes that the ultimate reward is beholding God, not material gain, and calls for a return to Christocentric preaching and holiness.

As heard by us

A sermon on spiritual influence, ancient paths, and the character required to carry leadership well.

Joseph Matera frames the sermon around a searching question: who can live near the consuming fire? The answer puts character ahead of charisma, gifting, and visible influence.

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Why you'd press play

Press play when leadership needs a character test, not another lesson in charisma.

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