TUESDAY 26 July, 2016
The Watchman’s Duty
Now David was sitting between the two gates. And the watchman went up to the roof over the gate, to the wall, lifted his eyes and looked, and there was a man, running alone. Then the watchman cried out and told the king. And the king said, “If he is alone, there is news in his mouth.” And he came rapidly and drew near. - 2 Samuel 18:24-25
The duty of the watchman was to go on top of the wall of the city,to watch for any approaching enemies who might attack. If he saw the enemy, he would blow the rams horn to wake up the people inside of the city and have plenty of time to get ready for battle.
Ezekiel, as a prophet, was called to speak God’s Word to the people of Israel. He would warn Israel of consequences to their sins. God told him: Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me (Ezekiel 3:17).
This is not only true in the Old Testament but also in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul said to the Jews who opposed him after hearing the Gospel: “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean… (Acts 18:6).
As Christians we are called to be watchmen––we are to warn the people of God’s judgment––if they do not turn away from their sins. If those people chose not to repent of their sins; then their blood will be on themselves––you are free from their blood (Ezekiel 3:18-19).
When you are in the grocery store, the gym or at the beach take the opportunity to share the Gospel with people. We cannot force them to come to Christ; that is the work of the Holy Spirit, but we can warn them.
…I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.
~Acts 20:26-27~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!