Ezekiel 10:2

And the LORD said to the man clothed in linen, "Go inside the wheelwork beneath the cherubim. Fill your hands with burning coals from among the cherubim and scatter them over the city." And as I watched, he went in.

Study Bible

And the LORD said to the man clothed in linen
The "man clothed in linen" is often interpreted as an angelic figure or a representation of a divine messenger. Linen garments were typically worn by priests, symbolizing purity and holiness (Exodus 28:39-42). This figure may also be seen as a type of Christ, who serves as the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14).

Go inside the wheelwork beneath the cherubim
The "wheelwork" refers to the complex and mysterious vision of the chariot-throne of God described in Ezekiel 1. The cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God (Genesis 3:24, Exodus 25:18-22). This imagery emphasizes God's sovereignty and the mobility of His divine presence.

Fill your hands with burning coals from among the cherubim
Burning coals symbolize judgment and purification (Isaiah 6:6-7). In the context of Ezekiel, they represent God's impending judgment on Jerusalem. The coals being taken from among the cherubim highlight the divine origin of this judgment, underscoring that it is both righteous and holy.

and scatter them over the city
The act of scattering coals over the city signifies the execution of divine judgment upon Jerusalem for its sins and idolatry (Ezekiel 9:9-10). This action foreshadows the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BC, fulfilling the prophetic warnings given by Ezekiel and other prophets.

And as I watched, he went in
Ezekiel's role as a prophet is emphasized here as he witnesses the unfolding of God's plans. His vision serves as a warning to the people of Israel and a call to repentance. The obedience of the man clothed in linen reflects the certainty and inevitability of God's decrees.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The sovereign God who commands the events in this vision, demonstrating His authority and judgment.

2. The Man Clothed in Linen
A heavenly figure, possibly an angel, tasked with executing God's judgment. Linen often symbolizes purity and holiness.

3. The Wheelwork
Part of the vision of the divine chariot, representing God's omnipresence and mobility.

4. The Cherubim
Angelic beings associated with the presence and glory of God, often seen as guardians of His holiness.

5. The City
Refers to Jerusalem, which is the focus of God's impending judgment due to the people's sin and rebellion.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of all events, including judgment. His commands are executed by His messengers, emphasizing His ultimate authority.

The Role of Angels
Angels serve as God's messengers and executors of His will. They are involved in both protection and judgment, reflecting God's multifaceted nature.

Symbolism of Fire and Coals
Fire often symbolizes purification and judgment. In our lives, God may use trials to purify and refine us, drawing us closer to His holiness.

Holiness and Purity
The man clothed in linen represents purity. As believers, we are called to live lives of holiness, set apart for God's purposes.

The Seriousness of Sin
The scattering of coals over the city signifies the seriousness of sin and the inevitable judgment that follows. It serves as a warning to turn from sin and seek God's mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of the man clothed in linen and the burning coals challenge or affirm your understanding of God's holiness and judgment?

2. In what ways can the role of the cherubim in this passage inspire us to consider the presence and glory of God in our daily lives?

3. How can the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in this passage, provide comfort and assurance in times of uncertainty or trial?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "purifying fire" in your life. How did it change your relationship with God?

5. How can we apply the lessons of holiness and purity from this passage to our personal walk with Christ, and what other scriptures support this pursuit?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6
The vision of God's holiness and the burning coals used to purify Isaiah's lips, symbolizing purification and judgment.

Revelation 8
The imagery of burning coals and fire as instruments of divine judgment, showing continuity in God's methods of purifying and judging.

Leviticus 16
The use of coals in the Day of Atonement rituals, highlighting themes of purification and atonement.