Introduction:
In the Bible, fire is often a symbol of God's presence, power, and judgment. "Fire from the LORD" specifically refers to instances where God manifests His divine will or judgment through fire. This phenomenon is seen throughout the Old and New Testaments, serving as a means of communication, purification, and punishment.

Old Testament Instances:

1. The Burning Bush (Exodus 3:2):
One of the most iconic instances of fire from the LORD is the burning bush encountered by Moses. "There the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that the bush was on fire, but it was not consumed." This event signifies God's holy presence and His call to Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

2. Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18):
When God descended upon Mount Sinai to give the Law to Moses, the mountain was enveloped in smoke because "the LORD had descended on it in fire." This fire represented God's holiness and the seriousness of the covenant He was establishing with His people.

3. Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-2):
Nadab and Abihu, sons of Aaron, offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to His command. "So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD." This incident underscores the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

4. Korah's Rebellion (Numbers 16:35):
During the rebellion led by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, "fire came out from the LORD and consumed the 250 men who were offering the incense." This act of divine judgment reaffirmed the authority of Moses and Aaron and the sanctity of God's chosen leaders.

5. Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:38):
In a dramatic demonstration of God's power, Elijah called upon the LORD to prove His sovereignty over the false god Baal. "Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering, the wood, the stones, and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench." This event led the people to acknowledge the LORD as the true God.

New Testament References:

1. Pentecost (Acts 2:3):
On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles in the form of "tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them." This fire symbolized the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, enabling the apostles to speak in various languages and spread the Gospel.

2. Judgment Imagery (2 Thessalonians 1:7-8):
The New Testament also uses fire as a metaphor for divine judgment. Paul writes that the Lord Jesus will be revealed "in blazing fire with His powerful angels. He will inflict vengeance on those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus." This imagery serves as a warning of the ultimate judgment to come.

Symbolism and Themes:

· Purification and Holiness: Fire from the LORD often signifies purification, as seen in the refining process of precious metals. God's holiness is depicted as a consuming fire that purifies and sanctifies His people.

· Judgment and Wrath: Fire is a common symbol of God's judgment and wrath against sin and disobedience. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

· Presence and Revelation: Fire represents God's presence and His revelation to humanity. It is a means through which God communicates His will and demonstrates His power.

Conclusion:
The concept of "fire from the LORD" is a powerful and multifaceted theme in the Bible, illustrating God's holiness, judgment, and presence. Through these instances, believers are reminded of the awe-inspiring nature of God and the importance of living in obedience to His commands.