As for the likeness of the living creatures, their appearance [was] like burning coals of fire, [and] like the appearance of lamps: it went up and down among the living creatures; and the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning.
Ver. 13. Their appearance was like burning coals of fire.] Angels are actuosi et efficaces ut ignis, of a fiery nature, and of a fiery operation, as is also the Holy Spirit, Isaiah 4:4 Mat 3:11 Act 2:3 whereby they are actuated. Angels are all on a light fire, as it were, with zeal for God and indignation against sin; let us be similarly affected. Paul was a heavenly spark; John Baptist, "a burning and shining light." Chrysostom saith that Peter was a man made all of fire, walking among stubble; Basil was a pillar of fire; Latimer cried out, Deest ignis. In Bucholcere vivida omnia fuerunt, &c. a
It went up and down among the living creatures.] The fire and flame did. Heb., It made itself to walk of its own accord and pleasure.
And the fire was bright.] Let us also labour to kindle and keep quick the fire of zeal upon the hearth of our hearts, without all smoke or smudge of sin.
And out of the fire went out lightnings.] "The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth"; his noble works done by those instruments of his, the holy angels, are quickly noted and noticed, as in Sennacherib's army.
a Melch. Adam.