How does Ezekiel 3:19 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Our Mandate as Watchmen and Disciple-Makers Ezekiel 3:19: “But if you warn the wicked and he does not turn from his wickedness or his evil ways, he will die for his iniquity; yet you will have saved yourself.” 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.” Shared Foundations • Divine Commission – Ezekiel is directly appointed as “watchman” (Ezekiel 3:17). – Christ directly appoints every believer to “make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). – Both mandates originate from God’s authoritative command, leaving no room for personal option. • Clear Message to Deliver – Ezekiel must deliver God’s warning: turn or perish (Ezekiel 3:18-19). – The Church must proclaim repentance and faith, baptize, and teach obedience (Acts 2:38; Luke 24:47). – In both cases, the content is not negotiable; it is God’s exact Word. • Accountability of the Messenger – Ezekiel bears guilt if he withholds the warning (Ezekiel 3:18). – Believers are stewards of the gospel and will answer for their faithfulness (1 Corinthians 4:1-2; 2 Corinthians 5:10-11). – Obedience secures the messenger’s own standing of faithfulness (“you will have saved yourself”). Distinct Roles, One Purpose • Contextual Difference – Ezekiel speaks primarily to rebellious Israel in exile. – The Great Commission reaches “all nations,” Jew and Gentile alike. • Complementary Focus – Ezekiel’s emphasis: warn of judgment. – Jesus’ emphasis: offer salvation and lifelong discipleship. – Together, they reveal the full counsel of God—warning and hope inseparably linked (John 3:18; Romans 11:22). Practical Takeaways for Today • Embrace the Watchman Mindset – View your neighborhood, workplace, and family as your watchtower sphere. – Sound the warning against sin while extending Christ’s gracious invitation (2 Timothy 4:2). • Engage in Disciple-Making – Share the gospel, baptize new believers, and teach them Scripture systematically. – Remember Christ’s promise of His enduring presence, just as Ezekiel experienced God’s empowering Spirit (Ezekiel 3:22; Matthew 28:20). • Rest in God’s Sovereignty – Outcomes belong to the Lord; our responsibility is faithful proclamation (Ezekiel 3:19; 1 Corinthians 3:6-7). – Assurance: obeying the commission brings God’s commendation, regardless of listener response. Conclusion: One Unified Call Ezekiel 3:19 and Matthew 28:19-20 converge in charging God’s people to speak His Word clearly, urgently, and lovingly. Whether warning of impending judgment or inviting into covenant life through Christ, believers stand as God’s appointed heralds—watchmen whose obedience safeguards their own testimony and opens the way for others to be saved. |
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