Spread out above the heads of the living creatures was the likeness of an awesome expanse, gleaming like crystal.
The Prophet ascends by steps toward God Himself, and here he shows us that angels move all things under heaven yet have no motion of their own, God presides over them and governs their actions. Heaven itself displays His glory more clearly than earth does; consider the sun, the planets, the stars, and you will be struck a hundred times with wonder at His power and wisdom.
AI summary
God's glory shines not only in heaven's splendour but in the steadiness of His government below. Providence works like wheels in a clock, not moving of themselves but kept always in action by His direction. Faith discerns wisdom, power, and goodness in His administration of all things on earth; He judges and acts like Himself everywhere.
AI summary
Commenting on Ezekiel 1:15-25
This firmament cannot mean the angels, for they dwell in the third heaven above it; nor the three divine Persons, but the Gospel ministers on earth, subject to Christ whose throne sits above this crystal expanse. The crystal gleams so terribly bright that the eyes are dazzled, yet it shows that though Christ reigns in heaven, He sees all done in His churches and by His ministers.
AI summary