And there came a fire In token of God's approbation of the priesthood now instituted, and the sacrifices offered, and consequently of others of the like nature. And this fire now given was to be carefully kept, and not suffered to go out, (Leviticus 6:13,) and therefore was carried in a peculiar vessel in their journeys in the wilderness. It is said to have lasted till the time of Solomon, when God sent fire anew from heaven to consume the sacrifices offered at the dedication of the temple. And that again is said to have been preserved till the destruction of that first temple. From before the Lord Or, From the presence of the Lord; that is, from the place where God was in a special manner present, either from heaven or from the holy of holies. They shouted As wondering at, rejoicing in, and blessing God for, this gracious discovery of himself, and his favour.
This also was a figure of good things to come. Thus the Spirit descended in fire upon the apostles, so ratifying their commission, as this did that of the priests. And the descent of this holy fire into our souls, to kindle in them devout affections, and such a holy zeal as burns up all unholiness, is a certain token of God's gracious acceptance.