Monday | 22 June 2026

Fiery coals upon the head

By faithfully delivering the message that he had been given to proclaim as a watchman, the apostle Paul was relieved of the accountability for ‘the blood’ of his hearers. However, they came under the fiery judgement of the word that he had spoken. In this regard, ‘fiery coals’ were heaped on their heads as he fed them with the spiritual food and drink that is from heaven. Paul explained this point to the Christians in Rome, writing, ‘Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head”.’ Rom 12:19‑20.

The heaping of fiery coals upon the head of a person, who rejects the word of present truth that is proclaimed by a watchman, highlights that their rebellion is in relation to the order of headship. We note, therefore, that receiving the word that ministers life and healing to a hearer requires their acknowledgement of the authority that belongs to the order of headship.

This was demonstrated by the centurion who entreated Jesus regarding the healing of his servant. He said to Christ, ‘Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, “Go,” and he goes; and to another, “Come,” and he comes; and to my servant, “Do this,” and he does it.’ Mat 8:8‑9. It is clear from this man’s statement that he had previously heard Christ speak, and recognised that Jesus was the King who came to reveal the Father. Through the word proclaimed by Christ the King, the centurion had received faith, which he was now exercising in this interaction.