This week’s Pastor to Person was written by Pastor Franklin Garcia.
Now as for you, son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for the house of Israel; so you will hear a message from My mouth and give them a warning from Me. Ezekiel 33:7
The illustration is drawn from what was a common practice in time of war. The person assigned by his city to act as its watchman and to give warning of the approach of an enemy force had a heavy responsibility. He was to sound the alarm, so that the people of the city could retreat within the walls and prepare for battle. If any person ignored the warning, he was practically signing his death sentence, but the watchman would not be blamed for it. If, however, the watchman failed in his duty to sound the alarm, he would be held responsible for the deaths of any who were caught unaware.
The prophet Ezekiel was appointed a watchman over Israel. Like the watchman who guarded the city, he was responsible for warning the people when God gave him a message of judgment and encourage them to repent; otherwise, he would be held responsible for their fate.
We are God’s watchmen over our families, our co-workers, our friends, and acquaintances. It is our responsibility to speak the truth and warn them about the future judgment. We must share the gospel with the people in our lives. Whether they respond to the message of salvation or not, we are God’s watchmen over their lives.