Embracing the Call: Why Every Christian Should Be a Watchman
Embracing the Call: Why Every Christian Should Be a Watchman
By Michael E. Wheelon, Revelation Watchers Contributor
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In times of turmoil, Christians find themselves at a crossroads in history. The world is burdened with uncertainty, moral decay, and spiritual darkness. In such perilous times, the role of the watchman gains renewed importance. Some might argue that this role needs to be updated and more relevant. However, I am afraid I must disagree. I passionately believe that the call of a spiritual watchman is more relevant now than ever. Let us discuss the significance and necessity of heeding this call.
1. The Biblical Mandate
The watchman’s duty is not a mere suggestion but a divine mandate. In the book of Ezekiel, God declares,
“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me”
- Ezekiel 3:17 (ESV)
Like sentinels on the city walls, Christians are called to be spiritual watchmen—alert, discerning, and faithful to relay God’s messages.
2. The Urgency of the Hour
Our world reels from global conflicts, pandemics, and moral upheaval. Terrorism, political instability, and natural disasters dominate headlines. The rise of ideologies hostile to Christianity threatens believers worldwide. As watchmen, we cannot afford complacency: the clock ticks, and the midnight hour approaches.
3. The Battle for Souls
The watchman’s role extends beyond physical safety; it encompasses the eternal destiny of souls. We stand on God’s front lines, armed not with weapons of war but with the truth of the Gospel. The enemy targets Christians—the crosshairs fixed on those who bear the name of Christ. ISIS, Hamas, and other radical movements all declare war against believers. Our response? To be salt and light, unwavering in our proclamation of hope.
4. The Legacy of Boldness
We draw inspiration from heroes like Billy Graham, who fearlessly preached the Gospel. His legacy challenges us to emulate his boldness. As watchmen, we must echo the urgency of the Gospel message. The Middle East may seem distant, but its impact reverberates globally. We cannot ignore the cries of persecuted Christians or the threat posed by radical ideologies.
5. The Call to Discernment
Watchmen discern the times. They study Scripture, analyze world events, and seek God’s wisdom. They recognize that tough times demand spiritual vigilance. Our mandate is not fear-driven but hope-infused. Watchmen continuously point to the blessed hope—the imminent return of Christ. So, every Christian is summoned to the watchman’s post. If we are watchmen or watchwomen on the wall, we stand where God’s light pierces the darkness. Let us heed the call, lift our voices, and faithfully declare the warnings and promises of our sovereign God.
Understanding the Biblical Mandate and Significance of the Watchman Role
Also, the concept of being a watchman holds profound significance in the Bible.
Let me share some additional reasons why all Christians should embrace this role, along with relevant biblical references:
1. Vigilance and Spiritual Discernment:
As watchmen, we are called to be vigilant—to guard against spiritual pitfalls, false teachings, and moral decay.
Biblical Reference:
Isaiah 62:6
“I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence.”
2. Active Engagement with the World:
Watchmen are not passive observers. They actively engage with the spiritual climate of their times, discerning truth from falsehood.
We are called to be salt and light, impacting our communities and shining God’s truth.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 5:13-14
“You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world.”
3. Speaking Truth to Power:
Watchmen embody the prophet’s mantle, speaking truth even when uncomfortable or unpopular.
We must courageously address injustice, immorality, and falsehood.
Biblical Reference:
Ezekiel 33:7
“So you, son of man, I have made a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me.”
4. Interceding for Others:
Watchmen intercede for the welfare of their communities. They pray for repentance, righteousness, and God’s mercy.
We are called to intercede for our families, friends, and nations.
Biblical Reference:
Jeremiah 6:17
“And I set watchmen over you, saying, ‘Listen to the trumpet sound!’ But they said, ‘We will not listen.’”
5. Anticipating Christ’s Return:
Jesus Himself uses the watchman metaphor to encourage His disciples to stay awake, anticipating His return.
We await His coming with eager expectation.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 24:42
“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”
Eyes on the Horizon: The Modern Watchman's Mandate and Prophetic Insights
Okay, I hope I have convinced you that being a watchman is a calling from God. As Christians, we are called to be watchmen—guardians of truth, prayer warriors, and active participants in God’s redemptive plan. We cannot just sit in the pews. We must embrace this timeless concept, remaining vigilant and faithful in our walk with Him.
So, If I become a watchman, what will I watch? In ancient days, the watchmen were vital at alerting a city to the advancing of foreign armies on the horizon. Today, it goes beyond just watching for advancing troops to areas that impact the world around us. Many of today’s headlines are tied to a significant event referenced in the Bible; they are prophetic. Let us delve into some of these critical areas more extensively and see what we are watching for:
1. Global Conflicts and Wars:
Current Status: Ongoing conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine War, Israel-Hamas War, and tensions between China and Taiwan threaten global peace and stability. These conflicts involve territorial disputes, military aggression, and geopolitical tensions.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 24:6-7
You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
Revelation 6:4
And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
2. Pandemic and Health Crises:
Current Status: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact nations globally, affecting public health, economies, and daily life. Vaccination efforts, variants, and healthcare systems remain critical areas of concern. Now, disease X is on the horizon.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 24:7
For nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, pestilences and earthquakes in various places.
Revelation 6:8
And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and the name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him.
3. Climate-Related Events:
Current Status: Many claim that climate change poses risks to vulnerable communities through extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and ecological disruptions. Mitigation and adaptation strategies are essential. The bottom line is that the world faces catastrophic weather issues with flooding, sinkholes, extreme cold and heat, earthquakes, and other climate issues.
Biblical Reference:
Isaiah 24:4-6
The earth mourns and withers; the world languishes and fades away; the highest people of the earth languish. The earth lies defiled under its inhabitants, for they have transgressed the laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant.
Revelation 16:8-9
The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. The intense heat seared them and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.
4. Trade Policies and Protectionism:
Current Status: Geopolitical tensions impact trade relations, leading to tariffs, sanctions, and economic instability. Protectionist measures can exacerbate global economic challenges. We are all connected globally, and geopolitical tensions impact the world across various areas.
Biblical Reference:
Revelation 18:11-13
The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes anymore—cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron and marble.
5. Cybersecurity Threats:
Current Status: Cyberattacks and data breaches are rampant, affecting governments, businesses, and individuals. Protecting digital infrastructure and privacy is crucial. This is part of modern warfare.
Biblical Reference:
Daniel 12:4
But you, Daniel, roll up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge.
6. Human Rights Violations:
Current Status: Religious freedom and persecution issues persist globally. Discrimination, violence, and restrictions on faith communities require attention. Christians alone are persecuted all around the world for their faith in God.
Biblical Reference:
Isaiah 58:6
Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?”
Revelation 13:15-17
The second beast was given power to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship the image to be killed.
7. Political Instability:
Current Status: Political developments significantly impact stability. Leadership changes, ideological shifts, and governance challenges affect nations.
Biblical Reference:
Daniel 2:21
He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.
Revelation 17:12-13
The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast.
8. Terrorism and Extremism:
Current Status: Radical ideologies pose a significant threat to global security. Acts of terrorism, both physical and cyber, endanger lives and disrupt societies.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 24:9-10
Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other.
Revelation 13:7
It was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation.
9. Nuclear Proliferation:
Current Status: Monitoring nuclear programs and arms control is crucial for global security. The risk of nuclear conflict remains a pressing concern. We are closer to a potential nuclear conflict than ever before. The Doomsday clock is set at 90 seconds to midnight. It is the closest it has ever been in decades.
Biblical Reference:
Daniel 12:1
At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.
Revelation 8:10-11
The third angel sounded his trumpet, and a great star, blazing like a torch, fell from the sky on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water—the name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters turned bitter, and many people died from the waters that had become bitter.”
So, the biblical watchman must be situationally aware on various fronts, gathering intelligence from all aspects of the world and applying it to the word of God. It is a daunting task that cannot be accomplished by those with only a primer level of biblical understanding. It takes a seasoned biblical leader to be a watchman. To become a biblical watchman, you must deeply understand the Bible and its teachings. A biblical watchman is tasked with warning others of potential danger or spiritual threats based on their knowledge of scripture. You might consider studying theology or attending a seminary program to prepare for this role. Additionally, reading and learning the Bible on your own can help you better understand its teachings. Praying for guidance and seeking the counsel of respected spiritual leaders can also be helpful as you strive to become a biblical watchman.
Discover more in Revelation Watchers Co-Founders Pastor Paul Begley and Pulitzer Prize-nominated investigative journalist and five-time #1 bestselling author Troy Anderson’s new book - Revelation 911: How the Book of Revelation Intersects with Today’s Headlines (Salem Books/Regnery Publishing, March 26, 2024).
Stepping Into Vigilance: Practical Guidance for Aspiring Watchmen
As an individual seeking to embrace the role of a watchman, here are practical steps you can take to get started:
1. Pray for Spiritual Eyes:
Begin by praying specifically for God to open your spiritual eyes. Only God can equip you to see beyond the physical realm and discern spiritual realities. This is a spiritual gift.
Engage in two-way conversations with God, listening for His promptings and impressions. Learn to Journal.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 13:16
But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.
2. Practice the Art of Prayer:
Set aside a specific time each day to practice prayer. Cultivate a habit of seeking God’s presence and listening to His voice. Become a prayer warrior.
Be prepared to engage in intercession, lifting up others and their needs. This is a hard job for most Christians.
Biblical Reference:
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Pray without ceasing.
3. Immerse Yourself in God’s Word:
Read the Bible daily. God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.
Study devotionals, Bible studies, and thoughtful theologians to deepen your understanding.
Biblical Reference:
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
4. Stay Alert and Wise:
Be vigilant in observing the signs of God’s activity and the world around you. Tune in to those Pastors and Teachers who shed light on today’s prophetic happenings.
Be wise to Satan’s tactics and the spiritual battles that unfold. Know your enemy!
Biblical Reference:
1 Peter 5:8
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
5. Meet People’s Needs:
As a watchman, care for others. Whether great or small, meet people where they are and extend God’s love. We must be more like Jesus.
Address physical, emotional, and spiritual needs as you encounter them.
Biblical Reference:
Matthew 25:40
The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Remember that being a watchman is not a passive role—it involves active engagement, prayer, discernment, and faithful stewardship. As you seek God’s guidance, may you embrace this calling and impact the lives of those around you. It is a task to be taken seriously.
Are you ready?
Michael E. Wheelon, a retired GG-14, held distinguished roles in security, counterintelligence, and special program oversight at the Special Access Programs Division, Headquarters Air Force Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Previously, as a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) in the Air, Space, and Cyber Directorate, Space Superiority Division, he supervised Counterspace Operations at Peterson Air Force Base. With a military career spanning 31 countries and seven deployments, Wheelon fulfilled critical roles, including heavy weapons operator, high-frequency voice communications operator, ground station operator for high-valued space platforms, and signals intelligence instructor. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information and Networking Operations from Chapman University and a master’s certification in Executive Leadership from the University of Notre Dame, along with several certifications such as the Senior Command Management Civilian Certification Course and the Secretary of the Air Forces’ Program Security Officer (PSO) Certification Course. Wheelon's accolades include numerous Airman and NCO of the Year awards and a Finalist nomination for the USAF's 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year. Following retirement, he teaches at a Bible College in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and contributes to Paul Begley Ministries. Outside his professional pursuits, Wheelon enjoys drumming, backpacking, skiing, ice climbing, and spending time with his wife, Shelley, and their dog, Boo.
A Prayer for Michael Wheelon's Message: Embracing the Call to Watchmanship
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you with hearts open and spirits willing to heed Your call. We thank You for the revelation of the watchman's role in the Christian journey, understanding that it is a sacred duty bestowed upon us by Your divine wisdom.
Lord, we pray for Michael Wheelon's article, "Embracing the Call: Why Every Christian Should Be a Watchman." May this message resonate deeply within the hearts of Your children, stirring them to embrace their calling with fervor and dedication. Grant them clarity of vision and discernment to recognize the signs of the times, just as the watchmen of old did.
Equip each believer with the courage to stand as guardians of truth, fervent prayer warriors, and active participants in Your redemptive plan. May they not be content to merely sit in the pews but be compelled to rise up and fulfill their God-given mandate with unwavering faithfulness.
Lord, we ask for Your guidance and strength as individuals seek to embrace the role of a watchman. Lead them in practical steps to cultivate vigilance and readiness, empowering them to make a tangible difference in their communities and the world around them.
Bless Michael Wheelon's article with Your anointing, Lord, that it may serve as a beacon of inspiration and encouragement to all who encounter its message. May it ignite a fire within Your people to shine brightly for Your glory and honor.
We offer this prayer in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer.
Amen.
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