‘And behold the glory of the God of Israel was there, according to the appearance that I saw in the plain.'
This was in stark contrast to the image of jealousy outside the gate. The presence of the glory of God (revealed in fire - compare Ezekiel 8:2) vividly contrasted the abominable activities of Israel with the purity and holiness of their Creator-God. It also contrasted the living, moving God with the static lifeless image. God had not yet deserted His Temple. That was to come. But these events explain why He did so. We too must choose between the indwelling in power of the Holy Spirit, or looking off to lesser gods, to the idols of Mammon, Sex, and bawdy Entertainment.