Ezekiel 1:20
Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went, thither was their spirit to go; and the wheels were lifted up over against them: for the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels.
Ezekiel 1:20 (KJV)
Context
The book of Ezekiel is a prophetic book in the Old Testament, recording the visions and messages given to the prophet Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. In chapter 1, Ezekiel sees a vision of God’s glory, including heavenly beings, a firmament, and a throne-like structure. This verse describes the coordinated movement of the four living creatures and the wheels beside them.
Meaning
“Whithersoever the spirit was to go, they went” shows that the living creatures move in accordance with the spirit’s leading. The spirit is the guiding force, the power or life-force, of these celestial creatures. They do not act independently but are led by the spirit. The phrase “thither was their spirit to go” implies that the spirits of these beings were inclined to move in the direction the spirit led them. They were obedient and responsive to the will of the spirit.
The wheels are intricately involved in the movement of the heavenly beings. They are lifted up in conjunction with the creatures’ movement, acting as the means by which the beings are transported. The phrase “the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels” highlights the connection between the spirit and the wheels. The wheels are animated and directed by the same life-force that moves the celestial beings, emphasizing the unity and coordination of movement between the beings and the wheels.
Biblical connections
The immediate context of Ezekiel 1:19-21 reinforces this teaching: when the creatures moved, stood, or were lifted up, the wheels did the same, because the spirit of the living creature was in the wheels. This demonstrates that all elements of God’s heavenly chariot-throne move in unison under His sovereign direction. The spirit is understood as the Spirit of God, directing the creatures in paths of faith and duty. The creatures’ spirits, being regenerated, are aligned with God’s Spirit, so they willingly follow His leading.
Application
Obedience to God’s leading: The heavenly beings exemplify obedience to the spirit’s guidance. As believers, we should seek to be responsive to the leading of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to direct our paths and guide our actions.
Unity and coordination: The vision of the beings and the wheels working in harmony underscores the importance of unity within the body of Christ. We are called to work together, utilizing our individual gifts and abilities, to accomplish God’s purposes.
The presence of God: The vision reveals the majesty and glory of God, reminding us of the awe-inspiring nature of His presence and His authority over all creation. We should approach Him with reverence and humility, recognizing His sovereignty.
Symbolism and metaphor: The intricate and symbolic nature of Ezekiel’s vision reminds us that God often communicates His truth through imagery and metaphors. It encourages us to seek the spiritual truths behind the symbols.
Reflection
Ezekiel 1:20 portrays the movement and coordination of heavenly beings in a vision. The verse emphasizes obedience to the spirit’s leading, unity, and the symbolic representation of God’s presence. It encourages us to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit, work together in harmony, and approach God with reverence and humility.
