Ezekiel 1

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1 In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while I was among the exiles by the River Kebar, the heavens opened and I saw visions of God. 2 On the fifth day of the month—it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin— 3 the word of the LORD came directly to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the River Kebar. And there the LORD’s hand was upon him. 4 I looked and saw a whirlwind coming from the north, a great cloud with fire flashing back and forth and brilliant light all around it. In the center of the fire was a gleam like amber, 5 and within it was the form of four living creatures. And this was their appearance: They had a human form, 6 but each had four faces and four wings. 7 Their legs were straight, and the soles of their feet were like the hooves of a calf, gleaming like polished bronze. 8 Under their wings on their four sides they had human hands. All four living creatures had faces and wings, 9 and their wings were touching one another. They did not turn as they moved; each one went straight ahead. 10 The form of their faces was that of a man, and each of the four had the face of a lion on the right side, the face of an ox on the left side, and also the face of an eagle. 11 Such were their faces. Their wings were spread upward; each had two wings touching the wings of the creature on either side, and two wings covering its body. 12 Each creature went straight ahead. Wherever the spirit would go, they would go, without turning as they moved. 13 In the midst of the living creatures was the appearance of glowing coals of fire, or of torches. Fire moved back and forth between the living creatures; it was bright, and lightning flashed out of it. 14 The creatures were darting back and forth as quickly as flashes of lightning. 15 When I looked at the living creatures, I saw a wheel on the ground beside each creature with its four faces. 16 The workmanship of the wheels looked like the gleam of beryl, and all four had the same likeness. Their workmanship looked like a wheel within a wheel. 17 As they moved, they went in any of the four directions, without pivoting as they moved. 18 Their rims were high and awesome, and all four rims were full of eyes all around. 19 So as the living creatures moved, the wheels moved beside them, and when the creatures rose from the ground, the wheels also rose. 20 Wherever the spirit would go, they would go, and the wheels would rise alongside them, because the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels. 21 When the creatures moved, the wheels moved; when the creatures stood still, the wheels stood still; and when the creatures rose from the ground, the wheels rose alongside them, because the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels. 22 Spread out above the heads of the living creatures was the likeness of an awesome expanse, gleaming like crystal. 23 And under the expanse, their wings stretched out toward one another. Each one also had two wings covering its body. 24 When the creatures moved, I heard the sound of their wings like the roar of many waters, like the voice of the Almighty, like the tumult of an army. When they stood still, they lowered their wings. 25 And there came a voice from above the expanse over their heads as they stood still with their wings lowered. 26 Above the expanse over their heads was the likeness of a throne with the appearance of sapphire, and on the throne high above was a figure like that of a man. 27 From what seemed to be His waist up, I saw a gleam like amber, with what looked like fire within it all around. And from what seemed to be His waist down, I saw what looked like fire; and brilliant light surrounded Him. 28 The appearance of the brilliant light all around Him was like that of a rainbow in a cloud on a rainy day. 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.

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What Is This Chapter About?

Theme: Introduction to Ezekiel's Vision

Ezekiel chapter 1 introduces the prophet Ezekiel and his vision from God, which sets the stage for the rest of the book. This chapter describes the divine encounter that commissions Ezekiel as a prophet to the nation of Israel. The central message of this chapter is the majesty and glory of God, who reveals Himself to Ezekiel in a dramatic and powerful way.

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Key Verse

Christ in This Chapter

Holy Spirit

Key Words / Phrases

Names of God

Key Verse

Ezekiel 1:28 "This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell facedown, and I heard a voice speaking."

This verse is central to the chapter because it describes the climax of Ezekiel's vision, where he sees the glory of the Lord and falls facedown in worship. The verse highlights the majesty and power of God, who reveals Himself to Ezekiel in a dramatic and supernatural way.

Key Words in Ezekiel 1

"Glory of the Lord"

This phrase refers to the visible manifestation of God's presence and power, which is a central theme in the chapter.

"Four living creatures"

These creatures are described as having four wings and four faces, and are accompanied by a whirlwind and a bright cloud. They represent the power and majesty of God.

"Wheel within a wheel"

This phrase describes the complex and intricate nature of God's creation, and the way in which He is able to move and act in the world.

"Facedown"

This phrase describes Ezekiel's response to the vision of God's glory, and emphasizes the humility and reverence that is required in the presence of God.

Christ in This Chapter

Although Ezekiel 1 does not explicitly mention Christ, the chapter's description of the glory of the Lord and the four living creatures has been interpreted by some as a foreshadowing of the divine nature of Christ. The vision of the throne and the figure seated upon it (Ezekiel 1:26-28) is reminiscent of the vision of God's throne in Revelation 4:2-3, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. The chapter's emphasis on the majesty and power of God also points to the divinity of Christ, who is the radiance of God's glory (Hebrews 1:3). (Ezekiel 1:28) (John 1:1 · Revelation 4:2-3)

Names of Deity

Names and pronouns referring to God are marked throughout the text.

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Study Notes — Ezekiel 1

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Chapter Summary
Context for the Chapter
Heart Application
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Voices from the Church
Outline for Preaching
Core Doctrines
Lessons from Ezekiel 1
Themes from Ezekiel 1
Questions for Meditation
Detailed Chapter Outline
Frequently Asked Questions
Top Cross References
Sermons on Ezekiel 1
Matthew Henry Commentary
What Do You Notice?

Chapter Summary

Ezekiel 1 describes the prophet's call and commission by God, which occurs in a dramatic and supernatural encounter. The chapter begins with Ezekiel's introduction, where he describes his exile in Babylon and his encounter with God on the fifth day of the fourth month in the thirtieth year (Ezekiel 1:1-3). Ezekiel then describes his vision of the four living creatures, each with four wings and four faces, which are accompanied by a whirlwind and a bright cloud (Ezekiel 1:4-14). The creatures are described as having the face of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle, and they are surrounded by a wheel within a wheel, full of eyes (Ezekiel 1:15-21). The chapter concludes with Ezekiel's description of the glory of the Lord, which appears above the creatures and is described as a throne with a figure seated upon it, surrounded by a brilliant light (Ezekiel 1:22-28).

Context for the Chapter

Ezekiel 1 is set in the context of the Babylonian exile, where the prophet Ezekiel is living among the Jewish community in Babylon. The chapter is part of the larger narrative of the book of Ezekiel, which explores themes of judgment, restoration, and the glory of God. The chapter is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, with parallels to other prophetic books such as Isaiah and Jeremiah. The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is also reminiscent of the vision of God's throne in Isaiah 6:1-5, and the description of the four living creatures is similar to the description of the cherubim in Exodus 25:18-22.

Heart Application

The chapter encourages readers to humble themselves before God and to recognize His majesty and power. The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God, and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and humility. As we reflect on this chapter, we are challenged to consider our own response to God's glory, and to ask ourselves whether we are living in a way that is worthy of His majesty.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Ezekiel 1 describes the prophet's call and commission by God, which occurs in a dramatic and supernatural encounter. The chapter emphasizes the majesty and power of God, who reveals Himself to Ezekiel in a vision of four living creatures and a brilliant light. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of humility and reverence in the presence of God, and are challenged to consider our own response to His glory (Ezekiel 1:28).

Voices from the Church

“The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is a reminder of the majesty and power of our God, and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and humility.”
— Charles Spurgeon

“The four living creatures in Ezekiel 1 represent the power and majesty of God, and remind us of the complexity and intricacy of His creation.”
— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

Introduction to Ezekiel's Vision (1:1-3) — The chapter begins with Ezekiel's introduction, where he describes his exile in Babylon and his encounter with God on the fifth day of the fourth month in the thirtieth year.
The Four Living Creatures (1:4-14) — Ezekiel then describes his vision of the four living creatures, each with four wings and four faces, which are accompanied by a whirlwind and a bright cloud.
The Wheel within a Wheel (1:15-21) — The creatures are surrounded by a wheel within a wheel, full of eyes, which represents the complexity and intricacy of God's creation.
The Glory of the Lord (1:22-28) — The chapter concludes with Ezekiel's description of the glory of the Lord, which appears above the creatures and is described as a throne with a figure seated upon it, surrounded by a brilliant light.
Ezekiel's Response (1:28) — Ezekiel's response to the vision is one of humility and reverence, as he falls facedown before God's glory.

Core Doctrines

The Glory of God: The chapter emphasizes the majesty and power of God, who reveals Himself to Ezekiel in a dramatic and supernatural encounter.
The Importance of Humility: The chapter highlights the importance of humility and reverence in the presence of God, as Ezekiel falls facedown before God's glory.
The Complexity of God's Creation: The wheel within a wheel represents the complexity and intricacy of God's creation, and reminds us of the majesty and power of our God.
The Divine Nature of Christ: The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is reminiscent of the vision of God's throne in Revelation 4:2-3, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

Lessons from Ezekiel 1

The Importance of Humility — The chapter teaches us the importance of humility and reverence in the presence of God, and encourages us to approach Him with a sense of awe and wonder.
The Complexity of God's Creation — The wheel within a wheel represents the complexity and intricacy of God's creation, and reminds us of the majesty and power of our God.
The Divine Nature of Christ — The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is reminiscent of the vision of God's throne in Revelation 4:2-3, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
The Importance of Vision and Revelation — The chapter highlights the importance of vision and revelation in the life of the prophet, and encourages us to seek God's guidance and direction in our own lives.
The Majesty and Power of God — The chapter emphasizes the majesty and power of God, who reveals Himself to Ezekiel in a dramatic and supernatural encounter.

Themes from Ezekiel 1

The Glory of God — The chapter emphasizes the majesty and power of God, who reveals Himself to Ezekiel in a dramatic and supernatural encounter.
The Importance of Humility — The chapter highlights the importance of humility and reverence in the presence of God, as Ezekiel falls facedown before God's glory.
The Complexity of God's Creation — The wheel within a wheel represents the complexity and intricacy of God's creation, and reminds us of the majesty and power of our God.
The Divine Nature of Christ — The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is reminiscent of the vision of God's throne in Revelation 4:2-3, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
The Importance of Vision and Revelation — The chapter highlights the importance of vision and revelation in the life of the prophet, and encourages us to seek God's guidance and direction in our own lives.

Questions for Meditation

What is the significance of Ezekiel's vision in this chapter, and how does it relate to the rest of the book?
How does the chapter's description of the four living creatures and the wheel within a wheel contribute to our understanding of God's creation?
What is the importance of humility and reverence in the presence of God, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
How does the chapter's emphasis on the glory of God challenge or encourage you in your own faith?
What are some ways in which we can cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and awe for God's majesty and power?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to Ezekiel's Vision (1:1-3)

1:1	The chapter begins with Ezekiel's introduction, where he describes his exile in Babylon and his encounter with God on the fifth day of the fourth month in the thirtieth year.
1:2	Ezekiel describes the heavens as being opened, and a whirlwind coming out of the north.

2. The Four Living Creatures (1:4-14)

1:4	Ezekiel describes the four living creatures, each with four wings and four faces, which are accompanied by a whirlwind and a bright cloud.
1:5	The creatures are described as having the face of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle.

3. The Wheel within a Wheel (1:15-21)

1:15	The creatures are surrounded by a wheel within a wheel, full of eyes, which represents the complexity and intricacy of God's creation.
1:16	The wheel is described as being full of eyes, and is said to be able to move in any direction.

4. The Glory of the Lord (1:22-28)

1:22	The chapter concludes with Ezekiel's description of the glory of the Lord, which appears above the creatures and is described as a throne with a figure seated upon it, surrounded by a brilliant light.
1:28	Ezekiel's response to the vision is one of humility and reverence, as he falls facedown before God's glory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the four living creatures in Ezekiel 1?

The four living creatures represent the power and majesty of God, and remind us of the complexity and intricacy of His creation (Ezekiel 1:5-14).

What is the meaning of the wheel within a wheel in Ezekiel 1?

The wheel within a wheel represents the complexity and intricacy of God's creation, and reminds us of the majesty and power of our God (Ezekiel 1:15-21).

How does the vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 relate to the rest of the book?

The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will explore themes of judgment, restoration, and the glory of God (Ezekiel 1:28).

Top Cross References

	Reference	Connection
1	Ezekiel 1:1 → 2 Kings 24:10-16	Ezekiel's exile in Babylon is described in 2 Kings 24:10-16, where the king of Babylon besieges Jerusalem and takes many of its inhabitants into exile.
2	Ezekiel 1:4 → Psalm 107:25	The whirlwind in Ezekiel 1:4 is reminiscent of the whirlwind in Psalm 107:25, where God is described as commanding the winds and the waves.
3	Ezekiel 1:5 → Revelation 4:6-8	The four living creatures in Ezekiel 1:5 are similar to the four living creatures in Revelation 4:6-8, which are described as being around the throne of God.
4	Ezekiel 1:15 → Daniel 7:9-10	The wheel within a wheel in Ezekiel 1:15 is reminiscent of the wheels in Daniel 7:9-10, where the Ancient of Days is described as having wheels under His throne.
5	Ezekiel 1:22 → Isaiah 6:1-5	The glory of the Lord in Ezekiel 1:22 is similar to the vision of God's throne in Isaiah 6:1-5, where the prophet Isaiah sees the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up.
6	Ezekiel 1:26 → Exodus 24:9-11	The throne in Ezekiel 1:26 is reminiscent of the throne in Exodus 24:9-11, where the elders of Israel see the God of Israel, and under His feet is a pavement of sapphire, like the very heaven for clearness.
7	Ezekiel 1:28 → Revelation 4:2-3	The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1:28 is reminiscent of the vision of God's throne in Revelation 4:2-3, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
8	Ezekiel 1:28 → John 1:1	The glory of the Lord in Ezekiel 1:28 is reminiscent of the glory of God in John 1:1, where Jesus Christ is described as the Word, who was with God in the beginning, and was God.

Sermons on Ezekiel 1

	Sermon	Description
	(Men Who Met God): Ezekiel - You Must Meet God by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of meeting God through Jesus Christ. He highlights that the Lamb of God, Jesus, has taken away the sins of the world and died
	Witnessing by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being a witness for God. He emphasizes that a witness is someone who tells what they have seen, heard, or experienced. He give
	The Holiness of God - Part 2 by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the word of God and the need to regain a sense of reverence for the holy. The sermon references the book of Revelation, sp
	(The Chief End of Man - Part 4): If You Won't Worship God, the Rocks Will by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of true worship in the church. He laments the fact that many churches have become more focused on entertainment rather than w
	A Man Who Saw God on the Throne by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the holiness of God and the importance of hating sin. He describes God as actively hostile to sin and warns against being flippant about it.
	Young Donald Mcphail Prays (Compilation) by Compilations	In this sermon, the preacher recounts his experience of struggling to preach in a church and feeling bound by the powers of hell. He then decides to seek the help of praying men fr
	Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 6 by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not giving up on God's purpose, even in difficult circumstances. He uses the example of Jeremiah, who initially resolved to
	The Horizon of Divine Purpose - Part 1 by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing the person and purpose as interconnected. They express a strong burden for delivering this message and believe it is
	Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 7 by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the visions of God that Ezekiel saw. The speaker highlights that whenever the Lord takes a new step or movement, He reveals His glory to some
	Blood on Your Hands by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes God's unfailing compassion and faithfulness towards the house of Israel. He highlights the influence our lives have on others, particularly

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ezekiel 1

In Ezekiel 1, we see the majesty and power of God, who reveals Himself to the prophet Ezekiel in a dramatic and supernatural encounter. The chapter emphasizes the importance of humility and reverence in the presence of God, and encourages us to seek His guidance and direction in our lives. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the complexity and intricacy of God's creation, and the majesty and power of our God. The vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is a reminder of the awe-inspiring nature of God, and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and humility. (Ezekiel 1:28) Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Use of Repetition

The chapter uses repetition to emphasize the majesty and power of God, with phrases such as 'the glory of the Lord' and 'the four living creatures' being repeated throughout the chapter.

The Importance of Vision

The chapter highlights the importance of vision and revelation in the life of the prophet, with Ezekiel's encounter with God being a pivotal moment in his ministry.

The Connection to the Rest of the Book

The chapter sets the stage for the rest of the book of Ezekiel, which will explore themes of judgment, restoration, and the glory of God.