“I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways! For why should you die, O house of Israel?” — Ezekiel 33:11
From the verse above, we can sense both God's love and His frustration towards His people. God does not wish for His people to perish; therefore, He appointed Ezekiel as a watchman for the house of Israel, to warn the wicked to turn from their ways. From other earlier chapters, we read that one’s salvation depends on personal righteousness and faithfulness toward God. Even if surrounded by righteous individuals, one will not be saved unless they turn away from their wickedness (Ezekiel 14:14). However, the earlier part of Ezekiel 33 also reminds us that the watchman will be held accountable if he fails to warn others about impending judgment.
Today, we also have a message to share with others:
“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.” — Mark 1:15
As watchmen in our present time, are we mindful of our duties? Are we aware of the serious consequences of not sounding the alarm, despite knowing what will happen to the wicked if they do not repent? Let us not fear the rejection of others, but instead, let us truly fear the judgment that God will bring upon those who do not repent.