How does Ezekiel 1:28's imagery enhance our understanding of God's glory today? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 1:28: “Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day, so was the radiance around Him. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell facedown and heard the voice of One speaking.” Unpacking the Imagery • Rainbow in the clouds • Radiance surrounding the throne-likeness • Prophet falling facedown Each detail is chosen by the Spirit to communicate something timeless about God’s glory and our posture before Him. The Rainbow: Covenant Assurance • Genesis 9:13-16—God sets the rainbow “as a sign of the covenant” never again to flood the whole earth. • Seeing the rainbow around God’s throne links His present glory to His past promise—reminding us that His glory is bound up with mercy and faithfulness. • Today, every rainbow still whispers, “God keeps His word.” When Ezekiel saw it in heaven’s throne room, the message intensified: God’s glory is inseparable from covenant grace. Radiance and Reverence • Psalm 104:1-2—God “wraps Himself in light as with a garment.” Ezekiel perceives the same blazing brilliance. • 1 Timothy 6:16—God “dwells in unapproachable light.” The radiance is not decorative; it guards the holy presence of the Almighty. • Application: Any encounter with God’s glory must elevate our view of His holiness and diminish casual attitudes toward sin. Falling Facedown: Our Fitting Response • Ezekiel’s immediate reaction parallels Daniel 8:17 and Revelation 1:17—when confronted with unveiled glory, God’s servants drop in awe. • True worship today still begins with humble surrender, not self-promotion. • God then speaks; reverence prepares the heart to receive revelation. Connecting to Christ • Revelation 4:3—John sees “a rainbow resembling an emerald” around the throne, echoing Ezekiel. • Revelation 21:23—In the New Jerusalem, “the glory of God” provides light, and “the Lamb is its lamp.” Christ embodies the same glory Ezekiel glimpsed, making it accessible through redemption. • 2 Corinthians 4:6—God “has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” Ezekiel’s vision finds fulfillment in the Gospel. Living Out the Vision Today • Rest in His promises—The rainbow assures us His covenant love endures amid cultural storms. • Walk in His light—Spiritual radiance exposes darkness; pursue holiness (1 John 1:7). • Respond with humility—Daily cultivate a heart posture that mirrors Ezekiel’s, ready to obey whatever God says next. • Reflect His glory—As image-bearers indwelt by the Spirit, we shine His character into our homes, churches, and communities (Matthew 5:16). |
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