As for the likeness of the living creatures, their appearance was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches moving to and fro among the living creatures. And the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning.
God mixes the heavenly with the earthly in this vision so the Prophet is roused and knows he stands before the divine. The burning coals serve the same purpose as the burning bush before Moses: they awaken him to God's presence. He descends to our stupidity and capacity because He knows how small our comprehension is.
AI summary
These visions filled Ezekiel with exalted thoughts of the God he served, securing him for his work and arming him with power to speak what God would do. They struck terror into the secure sinners of Zion who mocked the prophets, showing them our God is a consuming fire; and they comforted the godly captives in Babylon, assuring them their God dwelt among them still.
AI summary
Commenting on Ezekiel 1:4-14
The coals signify the Spirit's burning gifts in these ministers: their clear light in Gospel truth, their ardent love that no persecution can quench, their zealous fire for God's glory. The fire moving among them is the Word itself, common to all, enlightening minds and warming hearts so they warm others.
AI summary