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A Coal From The Altar, To Kindle The Holy Fire of Zeale: In a Sermon Preached at a Generall Visitation at Ipswich

Written by Samuel Ward

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PietySermons, EnglishBible. Revelation III, 19

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About this book

"A Coal From The Altar, To Kindle The Holy Fire of Zeale" by Samuel Ward is a theological sermon written in the early 17th century. This work serves as a persuasive exhortation to rekindle spiritual zeal among Christians, particularly focusing on the dangers of spiritual lukewarmness and the importance of fervent devotion to God. Through scriptural references and passionate rhetoric, Ward emphasizes the necessity of maintaining an active and fervent faith. In the sermon, Ward explores the nature of zeal as a vital Christian attribute, contrasting it with false forms of zeal that lead to hypocrisy or fervor without substance. He meticulously distinguishes between genuine zeal, which is characterized by sincere love and devotion to God, and counterfeit zeal, which is often marked by outward show and lack of true commitment. Throughout the text, he encourages believers to examine their spiritual fervor, engage in heartfelt prayer, and take action in their faith, rallying them to be both fervent in spirit and active in good works for God's glory. Ward’s work is a call to revitalization, urging readers to embrace a zealous faith that echoes through their lives and communities.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in A Coal From The Altar, To Kindle The Holy Fire of Zeale: In a Sermon Preached at a Generall Visitation at Ipswich, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • Exhortative
  • Serious
  • Devotional

Samuel Ward's "A Coal From The Altar" is a potent 17th-century theological sermon passionately advocating for the revitalization of spiritual zeal among Christians. Addressing the pervasive issue of spiritual lukewarmness, Ward employs scriptural exegesis and fervent rhetoric to distinguish between genuine, God-centered devotion and superficial, counterfeit forms of zeal. The work serves as a powerful exhortation, urging believers to cultivate an active, heartfelt faith characterized by sincere love, prayer, and consistent good works, ultimately calling for a profound spiritual awakening that manifests in both personal piety and communal action for God's glory.

“"For what is a Christian without zeal, but a lamp without oil, or a fire without fuel?"”

Key themes

Spiritual Zeal vs. Lukewarmness
This is the central theme, exploring the critical difference between a vibrant, active faith and a passive, indifferent one. Ward passionately argues that lukewarmness is anathema to God, while genuine zeal is a necessary characteristic of true believers. He delves into the nature of true zeal as a love for God and righteousness, contrasted with the dangers of spiritual apathy and the deceit of superficial piety.
Authenticity in Faith (True vs. False Zeal)
Ward meticulously distinguishes between sincere, God-directed zeal and its various counterfeits, such as hypocrisy, self-righteousness, or zeal for human traditions rather than divine truth. This theme underscores the importance of inward transformation over outward show, emphasizing that true zeal must stem from genuine love for God and be guided by His word, not by personal ambition or mere emotional fervor.
The Role of Good Works and Action in Faith
While emphasizing inner zeal, Ward also connects it intrinsically to outward action. True zeal is not merely an emotional state but a motivating force that compels believers to engage in heartfelt prayer, righteous living, and active participation in God's work. This theme highlights the practical, ethical, and communal dimensions of faith, stressing that spiritual fervor must translate into tangible expressions of love and obedience.

Worth discussing

How does Ward define 'true zeal,' and what distinguishes it from 'false zeal' in his view?

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