Ezekiel 43:3

The vision I saw was like the vision I had seen when He came to destroy the city and like the visions I had seen by the River Kebar. I fell facedown,

Study Bible

The vision
The phrase "the vision" refers to a divine revelation given to the prophet Ezekiel. In Hebrew, the word for vision is "חָזוֹן" (chazon), which implies a supernatural sight or insight granted by God. This vision is not merely a dream or a figment of imagination but a profound encounter with the divine reality. In the context of Ezekiel, visions often serve as a means for God to communicate His plans and purposes to His people. This particular vision is significant as it relates to the glory of God returning to the temple, symbolizing God's presence and favor with His people.

I saw
The phrase "I saw" emphasizes the personal experience of the prophet. Ezekiel is not recounting a secondhand account but is a direct witness to the divine revelation. The Hebrew verb "רָאָה" (ra'ah) means to see or perceive, indicating that Ezekiel's experience was vivid and clear. This personal witnessing underscores the authenticity and authority of the message he is conveying. It also highlights the role of prophets as intermediaries who receive and communicate God's revelations to His people.

was like the vision
The comparison "was like the vision" suggests a continuity or similarity with a previous revelation. This indicates that Ezekiel's current experience is consistent with what he has seen before, reinforcing the reliability and coherence of God's messages. The repetition of visions serves to confirm their truth and importance. In Ezekiel's case, it connects to earlier visions of God's glory, particularly those in the first chapter, where he saw the glory of the Lord in a dramatic and awe-inspiring manner.

I had seen
The phrase "I had seen" refers back to Ezekiel's earlier experiences, creating a link between past and present revelations. This continuity is crucial for understanding the unfolding narrative of God's dealings with His people. The Hebrew verb "רָאָה" (ra'ah) is again used, emphasizing the consistency of Ezekiel's prophetic experiences. It reassures the audience that the message is part of a larger divine plan and not an isolated incident.

when He came
The phrase "when He came" indicates a specific moment of divine intervention or appearance. The subject "He" refers to the glory of God, personified as coming to the temple. This highlights the active presence of God in the affairs of His people. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) means to come or enter, suggesting a movement towards or into a place. This movement signifies God's willingness to dwell among His people once again, a powerful message of hope and restoration.

to destroy the city
The phrase "to destroy the city" recalls the earlier vision of God's judgment upon Jerusalem. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience. The Hebrew verb "שָׁחַת" (shachat) means to destroy or ruin, reflecting the severity of God's judgment. However, in the context of Ezekiel 43, this reference to past destruction contrasts with the current vision of restoration, emphasizing God's mercy and the possibility of renewal.

And the visions
The plural "visions" indicates multiple revelations, suggesting that Ezekiel's prophetic ministry was marked by numerous divine encounters. This plurality underscores the richness and depth of God's communication with His prophet. Each vision contributes to the overall message of judgment and hope, forming a comprehensive picture of God's plan for His people.

I had seen
Reiterating "I had seen" reinforces the personal and direct nature of Ezekiel's experiences. It emphasizes the continuity and consistency of the prophetic message. The repetition of this phrase serves to assure the audience of the reliability of Ezekiel's testimony and the divine origin of his visions.

by the River Kebar
The location "by the River Kebar" situates Ezekiel's vision in a specific geographical and historical context. The River Kebar, likely a canal near Babylon, was where Ezekiel and other exiles were living. This setting highlights the reality of the Babylonian exile and the challenges faced by God's people. Despite being in a foreign land, God reveals His glory to Ezekiel, demonstrating that His presence is not confined to Jerusalem or the temple but extends to His people wherever they are.

and I fell facedown
The phrase "and I fell facedown" describes Ezekiel's response to the overwhelming presence of God's glory. The act of falling facedown is a posture of worship, reverence, and submission. It reflects the appropriate human response to the divine majesty and holiness. This reaction is consistent with other biblical accounts where individuals encounter God's presence, underscoring the awe-inspiring nature of such experiences. It serves as a reminder of the proper attitude of humility and reverence before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezekiel
A prophet and priest during the Babylonian exile, Ezekiel is the recipient of divine visions and messages, tasked with conveying God's words to the Israelites.

2. The Vision
This refers to the divine revelation Ezekiel receives, which is consistent with previous visions, particularly those concerning God's glory and judgment.

3. The River Kebar
A location in Babylon where Ezekiel received earlier visions, symbolizing a place of divine encounter and revelation.

4. The City
Refers to Jerusalem, which faced destruction as a consequence of the Israelites' disobedience and idolatry.

5. God's Glory
The manifestation of God's presence, often depicted as a radiant and overwhelming force, central to Ezekiel's visions.

Teaching Points

The Consistency of God's Revelation
God's messages and visions are consistent and reliable. Just as Ezekiel's visions align with previous ones, we can trust in the unchanging nature of God's word.

The Importance of God's Presence
The return of God's glory signifies restoration and hope. In our lives, seeking God's presence should be a priority, as it brings guidance and peace.

The Response to Divine Revelation
Ezekiel's response of falling facedown demonstrates reverence and humility. We should approach God's word with the same attitude, ready to listen and obey.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The destruction of the city serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. It calls us to examine our lives and align with His will.

Hope in Restoration
Despite past judgments, God's ultimate plan is one of restoration and renewal. This offers hope and encouragement for personal and communal renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Ezekiel's vision in chapter 43 compare to his earlier visions, and what does this teach us about the nature of God's communication?

2. In what ways can we seek and recognize God's presence in our daily lives, similar to Ezekiel's encounters by the River Kebar?

3. How does the theme of restoration in Ezekiel 43:3 connect with the promises found in Revelation 21, and what hope does this offer us today?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our response to God's word is one of reverence and obedience, as demonstrated by Ezekiel?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a sense of God's presence or guidance. How did it impact your life, and how can you cultivate a deeper awareness of His presence moving forward?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 1
The initial vision by the River Kebar, where Ezekiel first encounters the glory of God, establishing a thematic link to Ezekiel 43:3.

Ezekiel 10
Describes the departure of God's glory from the temple, which is a precursor to the vision of restoration in Ezekiel 43.

Revelation 21
The vision of the New Jerusalem, where God's presence is fully restored among His people, echoing the themes of restoration and divine presence in Ezekiel.