If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing...(1 Cor. 13:2b)

We're responsible to use the gifts we're given. "Accountability" is not based on how much we do or produce but on what we do with what we've been given. The rule is, "everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more." Luke 12:48. In holy Baptism, we have been given the Holy Spirit and the name of triune God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. By that name, we are given the right to be called ‘children of God.' As ‘children of God' we stand to receive the inheritance of our Father according to the New Covenant which is sealed with the blood of Jesus - given and shed for you.

What abundant blessing has been bestowed to us through holy Baptism. Shall we take all of this for granted and live as if it doesn't matter? Shall we assume that it doesn't matter how we live our life because we are baptized and God is obligated to bless us because He has sworn by His own name? Jesus tells a short parable about a fruitless fig tree that should cause us to be all ears. It is clearly His desire to rescue and preserve the precious tree. "Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure. Then if it should bear fruit next year, well and good..." However, there should be no doubt that the dear tree is expected to bear fruit without excuse. "...but if not, you can cut it down."

In ancient Israel, watchmen were stationed on the highest parts of the city walls. Their responsibility was to inform the city's inhabitants of the progress of a battle (1 Sam. 14:16) or of approaching messengers or enemies (2 Sam. 18:24-27; 2 Kings 9:17-20). Israel's prophets saw themselves as watchmen warning the nation of God's approaching judgment if the people did not repent (Jer. 6:17; Ezek 3:16-21; Hosea 9:8). Vineyards and fields also had watchmen, especially during harvest time. Their responsibility was to guard the produce from animals and thieves. 

   The concept of watchmen still remains for God's people today. The Lord's Church-- called the nation of God (1 Peter 2:9), the city of God (Hebrews 12:22-23), the field of God (1 Cor. 3:9) and, by analogy, the vineyard of God (Matt. 20:1-16)--has watchmen appointed to encourage faithfulness to the Lord. Who are these "watchmen"? 
1. God (1 Cor. 11:32;Hebrews 12:1-11). God disciplines us for our own good. The Lord's discipline prevents us from being condemned with the world (1 Cor. 11:32). 
2. The Word of God (2 Tim. 3:16,17). The Word teaches, rebukes, corrects and trains us in righteousness. 
3. The Church (1 Thess. 5:14-15; Heb. 10:23-25). We are called to patiently warn, encourage, and help one another. We are to spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 
4. Your Discipler (Matthew 28:19-20; Heb. 13:7,17). Elders, ministers and disciplers are there to teach you what is good; not to destroy you! They are there for your benefit--don't grieve them. 
5. Yourself (1 Tim. 4:7,8,16; 2 Tim. 1:7). It is our responsibility to train ourselves to be godly. God gave us the power to discipline ourselves.