The Watchman and His Message

I once heard the story of a huge rainstorm in a southern state where the bridge across a large stream was washed out. Soon after the storm a man was driving down the road in his car, and just as he rounded a sharp curve, he saw where this bridge had been washed out. He imme … More

Accountability

Up to this point Ezekiel has pronounced judgment upon Judah (Chap.’s 1-24) and the surrounding nations (Chap.’s 25-32) for their sins. After Jerusalem fell he has turned from messages of doom and judgment to messages of hope, comfort and future restoration for God’s people (Chap.’s 33-48). Up to now Ezekiel has acted as a watchman, warning the nation of coming judgment (3:17-21). Now God appoints him to be a watchman to preach a message of hope. God has promised to bless those who are faithful to Him. Both aspects of Ezekiel’s messages of warning and hope are important.

In the first part of this chapter Ezekiel is reminded of his call to be a watchman (vv. 1-9). The prophet’s ministry is likened unto that of a watchman, or person on guard duty, observing the danger of a coming enemy and then warning his people. In like manner, he is a watchman to them in spiritual matters. The enemy is seeking to destroy the people is their sinful ways of wickedness. To point out their sin and ask them to repent and turn to the Lord is Ezekiel’s mission. If, as a prophet of God, he should fail to warn his people, he will be held accountable.

Application

God will hold me accountable for not warning people about Hell and sharing the Gospel with them.

Ezekiel 33:1-9 (English Standard Version)


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