Introduction

Ezekiel 10 continues the narrative of divine judgment and the vision of God’s glory departing from the Temple in Jerusalem. This chapter further describes the cherubim and the divine chariot seen in Ezekiel’s initial vision (chapter 1), emphasizing the holiness of God and the seriousness of the idolatry that has led to His departure from the sanctuary.

Structure and Content

Vision of the Cherubim and the Divine Chariot (Ezekiel 10:1-17)

Detailed Description of the Cherubim

“Then I looked, and behold, on the expanse that was over the heads of the cherubim there appeared above them something like a sapphire, in appearance like a throne” (Ezekiel 10:1). Ezekiel sees the glory of God appearing again above the cherubim, signifying God’s sovereign presence and authority even in the midst of judgment.

The Cherubim and the Coals of Fire

“And the cherub stretched out his hand from between the cherubim to the fire that was between the cherubim, and took some of it and put it into the hands of the man clothed in linen, who took it and went out” (Ezekiel 10:7). The imagery of coals taken from among the cherubim and given to the man in linen to scatter over the city symbolizes the coming judgment—a purification through divine fire.

Movement of the Divine Chariot

“When they went, they went in any of their four directions without turning as they went, but in whatever direction the front faced, the others followed without turning as they went” (Ezekiel 10:11). The description of the cherubim and the wheels underlines the notion of a deliberate and determined departure of God’s presence from the Temple, emphasizing the mobility and omnipresence of God.

The Glory of the Lord Departs from the Temple (Ezekiel 10:18-22)

Departure from the Threshold

“Then the glory of the LORD went out from the threshold of the house, and stood over the cherubim” (Ezekiel 10:18). This moment is poignant, marking the gradual departure of God’s glory from the Temple, signaling both God’s grief over the sin of His people and His unwillingness to dwell in a place defiled by idolatry.

The Finality of the Departure

“These were the living creatures that I saw underneath the God of Israel by the Chebar canal; and I knew that they were cherubim” (Ezekiel 10:20). Ezekiel confirms that these are the same creatures he saw in his first vision, linking the visions together and reinforcing the message of God’s consistent character and the severity of the situation.

Connections to New Testament Teachings

Connection to Jesus Christ

The vision of God’s glory departing from the Temple because of unholiness prefigures the teachings of Christ, who spoke of the destruction of the Temple and a new way of accessing God through Himself (John 2:19-21). Jesus embodies the new Temple, the meeting place of God and man, and fulfills the promise of God’s presence among His people.

God’s Love for the World

The departure of God’s glory from the Temple, while a sign of judgment, also underscores His deep love for His people, as it reflects His desire for them to repent and return to righteousness. God’s actions are always geared towards restoring relationship, a theme culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, who provided the ultimate means for reconciliation.

Why the Bible Chapter Still Matters Today

Warning Against Spiritual Apathy

Ezekiel 10 serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of spiritual neglect and idolatry. It calls believers to consider the state of their own “temples”—their hearts—and to maintain them as holy places where God’s spirit can dwell.

Understanding of God’s Holiness

The chapter provides profound insights into the holiness of God and His intolerance for sin within His dwelling place, prompting believers to live lives that honor Him in reverence and awe.

Assurance of God’s Presence and Sovereignty

Despite the physical departure of God’s glory from the Temple, the vision reaffirms His omnipresence and sovereign control over all events, providing comfort that God remains in control and is actively involved in the lives of His people.

In conclusion, Ezekiel 10 not only recounts a critical moment in Israel’s history but also offers timeless lessons about the importance of holiness, the dangers of idolatry, and the enduring presence and sovereignty of God, making it highly relevant for contemporary faith and practice.