Strange Fire on God’s Altar: A Warning to the Modern Church

by Admin | Jan 17, 2026 | Messages

The Bible warns that not every fire on God’s altar comes from God. Nadab and Abihu were priests, yet they died because they offered strange fire—fire the Lord had not commanded. Their judgment reveals a serious truth: God rejects worship, ministry, and power that do not originate from Him, even when they appear religious.

Today, the Church faces a similar danger. Spiritual pollution has entered many pulpits. Holiness is being replaced with entertainment, and obedience with excitement. Many gatherings look spiritual but lack reverence for God. When God’s commands are ignored, the altar becomes polluted.

A dangerous belief has also crept into ministry: “Let us do evil that good may come.” Scripture condemns this thinking. God never permits sinful methods, deception, or dark powers to achieve “good” results. The end never justifies the means in God’s kingdom.

The Bible speaks of prophets who prophesied by Baal—speaking under a false spiritual source while claiming divine authority. In the same way today, some ministers operate with supernatural power that does not come from God. Miracles, prophecies, and crowds are not proof of divine approval.

God also condemns shepherds who consume the sheep instead of feeding them. Such leaders exploit God’s people, drain them spiritually, and build personal empires. These ministers are a threat to genuine pastors and sincere believers because they deceive, divide, and draw followers to themselves rather than to Christ.

Scripture makes it clear that God is against false prophets. Their judgment is certain. Those who refuse to repent, along with those who love deception, face eternal consequences in the lake of fire.

The Church must wake up. Believers are commanded to test every spirit, return to Scripture, and pursue holiness. God is purifying His altar in this generation.

The issue is not whether fire is burning—but whether the fire is from God.