How does Ezekiel 3:17 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? The Watchman’s Commission in Ezekiel 3:17 “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for the house of Israel; whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me.” • Appointed by God—Ezekiel’s role is not self-chosen; the LORD explicitly sets him in place. • Receives God’s word first—he must listen before he speaks. • Warns with urgency—silence would make him guilty of others’ blood (3:18–19). • Focuses on faithfulness—results belong to God; the watchman’s duty is obedience. Christ’s Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” • Authorized by the risen Christ—“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (v. 18). • Global scope—“all nations,” expanding Ezekiel’s Israel-specific task. • Comprehensive mandate—evangelize (make disciples), baptize, teach. • Enduring presence—Jesus Himself accompanies the mission. Where the Two Commissions Meet • Divine appointment – Ezekiel: “I have appointed you.” – Disciples: “Therefore go” under Christ’s authority. • God’s message, not ours – Watchman relays “a word from My mouth.” – Disciples teach “all that I have commanded.” • Warning and salvation intertwined – Ezekiel sounds the alarm of coming judgment. – Great Commission offers rescue through the gospel (John 3:16-18; Acts 4:12). • Accountability – Ezekiel held responsible if he withholds the warning (3:18). – Paul echoes the same burden: “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16). • Empowerment – Ezekiel strengthened by the Spirit (Ezekiel 3:12-14). – Believers empowered by the Spirit (Acts 1:8) and Christ’s continual presence. Why the Connection Matters 1. Adds weight to the Great Commission—evangelism is not optional; it is watchman duty. 2. Clarifies the message—true love warns of sin’s danger while pointing to the Savior. 3. Highlights urgency—we speak while there is time; judgment is certain (Hebrews 9:27). 4. Assures us of God’s help—whether in Babylon or the twenty-first century, God equips His messengers. Practical Takeaways for Modern Watchmen-Disciples • Stay at your post—regularly receive God’s word through Scripture (Psalm 119:105). • Sound the alarm—share the gospel plainly and lovingly (2 Timothy 4:2). • Trust the results—faithfulness, not numbers, marks success (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Lean on the promise—Christ is with you always; the task is great, but so is His presence. Key Cross-References • Jeremiah 6:17—watchmen over Jerusalem. • Isaiah 62:6–7—watchmen who never keep silent. • Romans 10:14-15—heralds sent to preach. • Acts 20:26-27—Paul innocent of blood because he declared the whole counsel of God. |
    |