Topical Bible: Watchmen in Time of Danger: Reported the Approach of all Strangers

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, watchmen played a crucial role in the safety and security of cities and communities. Their primary duty was to stand guard, often on city walls or towers, to observe and report any approaching danger, including the arrival of strangers. This role is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, highlighting the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential threats.

Biblical References and Duties

The role of the watchman is vividly illustrated in the book of Ezekiel, where God appoints Ezekiel as a spiritual watchman for the house of Israel. Ezekiel 33:6 states, "But if the watchman sees the sword coming and fails to blow the trumpet to warn the people, and the sword comes and takes away a life, then that one is taken away in his iniquity, but I will hold the watchman accountable for his blood." This passage underscores the responsibility of the watchman to alert the people to impending danger, emphasizing the moral and spiritual accountability associated with the role.

In 2 Kings 9:17 , the watchman stationed on the tower in Jezreel reports the approach of Jehu's company: "Now the watchman was standing on the tower in Jezreel, and he saw Jehu’s troops approaching. So he called out, 'I see a company of troops!' And Joram ordered, 'Send a horseman to meet them and ask, ‘Do you come in peace?’'" This account demonstrates the watchman's duty to identify and report the arrival of strangers, allowing the city's leaders to take appropriate action.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

The watchman's role extends beyond physical security to encompass spiritual vigilance. In Isaiah 62:6 , God appoints watchmen over Jerusalem, who are to pray continually: "On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the LORD, give yourselves no rest." Here, the watchmen symbolize those who are spiritually alert, interceding for the people and seeking divine protection.

The New Testament also reflects the concept of spiritual watchfulness. In Mark 13:34-37 , Jesus uses the metaphor of a watchman to exhort His followers to remain vigilant: "It is like a man going on a journey, who left his house, put each servant in charge of his own task, and instructed the doorkeeper to keep watch. Therefore keep watch, because you do not know when the master of the house will return—whether in the evening, at midnight, when the rooster crows, or in the morning. Otherwise, he may arrive without notice and find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to everyone: Keep watch!"

Historical Context and Application

In ancient Israel, cities were often fortified with walls, and watchmen were stationed at strategic points to provide early warning of any approaching threat. Their role was critical in times of war and peace, as they were the first line of defense against invaders and the first to welcome allies or travelers.

The watchman's task required keen eyesight, attentiveness, and the ability to discern between friend and foe. This vigilance is a recurring theme in Scripture, serving as a metaphor for spiritual readiness and the need to be alert to the signs of the times.

In contemporary Christian thought, the concept of the watchman is often applied to spiritual leaders and believers who are called to be vigilant in prayer, discernment, and moral integrity. They are tasked with warning others of spiritual dangers and encouraging the faithful to remain steadfast in their walk with God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 18:24-27
And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the roof over the gate to the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold a man running alone.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 9:18-20
So there went one on horseback to meet him, and said, Thus said the king, Is it peace? And Jehu said, What have you to do with peace? turn you behind me. And the watchman told, saying, The messenger came to them, but he comes not again.
Torrey's Topical Textbook