This chapter continues the vision of judgement against idolaters, though it’s main focus is describing the cherubim (angels) and how they are behaving. God and His chariot are in this vision as well, with a consistent description from chapter 1.
“…[the Lord] commanded the man clothed in linen, ‘Take fire from between the whirling wheels, from between the cherubim’… And a 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…” (v6-7 abr)
The “man clothed in linen” is the one who carried a scribe’s pouch and marked the foreheads of those who were spared from destruction (ch 9). He now receives fire from God, a symbol of His power. This figure in linen, the one who redeems people from destruction and wields the power of God, is most likely (pre-incarnate) Jesus.
Has Jesus marked you as someone to be spared from the destruction every sinner deserves? Those who confess their sin and believe in the power of Jesus’ resurrection, claiming Him as King over their lives, receive God’s Holy Spirit. God’s indwelling Spirit is a marker and down-payment showing how we will one day be in flawless alignment and relationship with God in Heaven. Until then, we have been spared from sin’s ultimate destructive outcome.
Let’s proclaim the good news and rejoice in our salvation, informing anyone who listens that they too can receive the free gift of salvation. Our infinite Lord has more than enough room for us all in His kingdom, with more love and mercy than we could exhaust. Why not invite as many people as possible into His kingdom? They too can be ‘marked for life’ and recorded by the Great Scribe into the ‘Lamb’s book of life’.
Father God, our Merciful Lord and Redeeming Savior, we are grateful for Your gift of salvation and indwelling Spirit. May we proclaim Your gospel message, including our testimony of salvation, so all may hear of Your wondrous works. May we honor, glorify, and proclaim You, as long as we shall live. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training