How does Ezekiel 11:22 connect with God's holiness in Exodus 25:22? Setting the Scene Exodus 25 previews God’s dwelling among His people; Ezekiel 11 records the tragic moment when His glory begins to leave. Both passages feature the same striking image—God’s glory positioned above cherubim—revealing how His holiness governs both fellowship and judgment. Key Texts • Exodus 25:22: “And I will meet with you there above the mercy seat, between the two cherubim that are over the Ark of the Testimony; I will speak with you from all that I command you regarding the Israelites.” • Ezekiel 11:22: “Then the cherubim, with the wheels beside them, lifted their wings, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them.” The Cherubim—Guardians of Holiness • First mentioned in Genesis 3:24, cherubim guard the way to God’s presence, underscoring His unapproachable purity. • In both texts they flank the place where God’s glory rests, stressing that divine holiness is ever protected and set apart. Glory Above the Cherubim—Then and Later • Exodus: God’s glory above the mercy seat signals welcome. Israel can approach through blood placed on that very seat (Leviticus 16:14–15). • Ezekiel: the same glory rises to depart, signaling that unchecked sin forfeits the blessing of that nearness (Ezekiel 10:18; 11:23). The identical imagery teaches that His holiness never changes; what shifts is human obedience. Holiness Displayed in Nearness and Departure • Nearness (Exodus 25): Holiness invites—but only through atonement. God speaks “from above the mercy seat,” illustrating both majesty and mercy. • Departure (Ezekiel 11): Holiness cannot coexist with persistent rebellion (Habakkuk 1:13). The glory lifting from between the cherubim is holiness in motion—separating from impurity. Grace Embedded in Holiness • Even in judgment God leaves a remnant (Ezekiel 11:13–20), promising a new heart. Holiness is never mere severity; it always moves toward redemption. • The mercy seat anticipates Christ, “whom God presented as an atoning sacrifice” (Romans 3:25). At Calvary the curtain tore (Matthew 27:51), proving that God’s holy presence, once departing, now draws near for all who trust the Son. Living It Out Today • Approach God with awe and confidence—His holiness remains, but the blood of Jesus grants free access (Hebrews 10:19–22). • Treat sin seriously; unchecked rebellion still grieves the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). • Rejoice that the Holy One who once departed now indwells every believer (1 Corinthians 3:16), proving His holiness can both dwell with and transform us. |
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