The concept of responsibility for delivering the message is a significant theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the duty of God's chosen messengers to faithfully communicate His word to others. This responsibility is not only a privilege but also a solemn obligation, as it involves conveying divine truth to humanity.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the prophets were often tasked with delivering God's messages to the people of Israel. This responsibility was not taken lightly, as the prophets were seen as God's mouthpieces. For instance, in Ezekiel 3:17-19 , God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for the house of Israel, saying, "Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me. If I say to the wicked, ‘You will surely die,’ but you do not warn him or speak out to warn him from his wicked way to save his life, that wicked man will die in his iniquity, and I will hold you responsible for his blood. But if you warn the wicked man and he does not turn from his wickedness and his wicked way, he will die in his iniquity; but you will have saved yourself."

This passage underscores the gravity of the prophet's role. The responsibility is not merely to deliver a message but to do so with the intent of turning people from their wicked ways. Failure to deliver the message results in accountability for the consequences.

New Testament Commission

In the New Testament, the responsibility for delivering the message is expanded to include all believers, particularly through the Great Commission. Jesus commands His disciples 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."

This commission is a directive for Christians to spread the gospel, teaching and baptizing in the name of the Triune God. The responsibility is not limited to the apostles but extends to all followers of Christ, emphasizing the universal call to evangelism and discipleship.

Apostolic Example

The Apostle Paul exemplifies the responsibility of delivering the message in his ministry. In Acts 20:26-27 , Paul declares to the Ephesian elders, "Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God." Paul’s statement reflects his commitment to fully proclaiming God's message, ensuring that he has fulfilled his duty without omission.

Paul further emphasizes this responsibility in 2 Timothy 4:2 , where he instructs Timothy, "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and encourage with every form of patient instruction." This charge highlights the need for readiness and perseverance in delivering the message, regardless of circumstances.

Consequences of Neglect

The Bible also warns of the consequences of neglecting this responsibility. In James 3:1 , it is written, "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." This warning serves as a reminder of the heightened accountability for those who are entrusted with teaching and proclaiming God's word.

Conclusion

The responsibility for delivering the message is a profound duty that carries both privilege and accountability. From the prophets of the Old Testament to the apostles and believers in the New Testament, the call to faithfully communicate God's truth remains a central tenet of the Christian faith.