What connections exist between Ezekiel 1:28 and Revelation's descriptions of God's throne? A Glimpse of Glory in 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 a voice speaking.” (Ezekiel 1:28) John’s Complementary Vision in Revelation 4 “At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with someone seated on it. And the One seated there looked like jasper and carnelian, and a rainbow that gleamed like an emerald encircled the throne.” (Revelation 4:2-3) Color and Radiance: The Rainbow Motif • Both prophets describe a rainbow-like radiance surrounding God’s throne presence. • In Scripture the rainbow recalls God’s covenant mercy (Genesis 9:13-17). Ezekiel and John each see that mercy permanently woven into the throne itself. • The emerald-like glow in Revelation adds a jewel-tone depth to the same multicolored brilliance Ezekiel saw, underscoring beauty and transcendence. Thunder, Light, and Living Beings • Ezekiel’s throne-storm roars with “flashes of lightning” and “brilliant light” (Ezekiel 1:4, 13). • John hears “flashes of lightning and rumblings and peals of thunder” from the throne (Revelation 4:5). • Both visions include living creatures who proclaim God’s holiness (Ezekiel 1:5-14; Revelation 4:6-8). Shared Themes of Majesty • Absolute sovereignty—God rules from an exalted, immovable throne (Psalm 103:19). • Holiness—creatures cover themselves or cease not to say “Holy, holy, holy” (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8). • Overwhelming glory—both prophets fall in reverent awe (Ezekiel 1:28; Revelation 1:17). Why the Rainbow Matters • Covenant faithfulness: the same God who promised never to flood the earth now welcomes His people into eternal fellowship (Hebrews 10:23). • Judgment tempered by mercy: thunder and lightning signal justice, yet the rainbow encircles judgment with grace (James 2:13). • Unchanging character: across centuries and authors, Scripture presents a unified portrayal of God’s throne, confirming its reliability (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). Living Response: Worship and Awe • Both visions elicit immediate, humble prostration. • Genuine worship arises when God’s holiness and mercy are seen together. • Ezekiel and John invite every generation to behold that throne and join the unending praise (Revelation 5:13-14). |
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