What significance do the cherubim have in Ezekiel 10:19 for God's holiness? Setting the Scene • Ezekiel 10 describes a dramatic moment when “the glory of the LORD” departs the temple. • v. 19: “Then the cherubim lifted their wings and rose up from the earth in my sight, and the wheels went with them. They stood at the entrance to the east gate of the house of the LORD, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them.” • Cherubim are not chubby angels; they are mighty, awe-inspiring throne-bearers who appear whenever God’s holiness is on display (Genesis 3:24; Exodus 25:18-22; Psalm 99:1). The Role of the Cherubim in the Vision • Throne bearers—They “lifted their wings” and moved with the wheels, carrying the mobile throne of God’s glory. • Guardians—Just as in Eden they guarded the way to the tree of life, here they mark the boundary between holy and profane. • Witnesses—Their movement signals heaven’s verdict on Judah’s sin: the Holy One will no longer dwell among an unrepentant people. How the Cherubim Highlight God’s Holiness • Separation from Sin – God’s holiness is incompatible with idolatry (Ezekiel 8); as the cherubim rise, His glory withdraws. • Majesty and Purity – Psalm 99:1: “He is enthroned between the cherubim—let the earth quake!” The same majesty fills Ezekiel’s vision. • Continuity of Revelation – From the tabernacle (Exodus 25) to Solomon’s temple (1 Kings 6:23-28) to Ezekiel’s vision, cherubim consistently surround God’s presence, underscoring that His holiness never changes. • Mobility of Divine Presence – Holiness is not confined to a building; the cherubim-borne throne can depart—and later return (Ezekiel 43:2-5), asserting God’s sovereign freedom. Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 3:24—Cherubim guard Eden’s entrance to preserve holiness. • 1 Samuel 4:4—Ark described as “the LORD of Hosts, who is enthroned between the cherubim.” • Revelation 4:6-8—Four living creatures (cherubim-like) cry “Holy, holy, holy,” forever linking their presence to God’s holiness. Lessons for Believers Today • Never presume on God’s presence; holiness demands reverence and obedience. • Cherubim remind us that access to God is a gift secured by Christ’s atoning work (Hebrews 10:19-22). • The same holy God who departed in Ezekiel is now pleased to dwell in believers by His Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17); therefore, pursue purity. |
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