For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God.
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Ambrose of Milan
AD 397
So the prophets called him a burning fire, because in those three points we see more intensely the majesty of the Godhead. Since to sanctify is of the Godhead, to illuminate is the property of fire and light, and the Godhead is frequently pointed out or seen in the appearance of fire: “For our God is a consuming fire,” as Moses said. .
Fire. God often appeared in the midst of fire. All the land shall be devoured by the fire of his jealousy, Sophonias i. 18., and iii. 8. (Calmet)
By these expressions, we are exhorted not to do any thing which would excite the indignation of our true lover, nor ever be unfaithful to him. (Haydock)
The pagans thought that fire was the fittest symbol of the divinity. (Porphyr. de Abstin.)
