A Parable of The Gang And The Watchman

The Parable of the Gang and the Watchman

There was a great city, and in that city a powerful gang arose. They multiplied in numbers and spread fear through the streets. They shed innocent blood, they plotted assassinations, and they spoke openly against the nation and against God. Not every member lifted a hand to do evil, but as a whole their banner was violence and rebellion.

In the midst of this city, there lived a watchman. He saw the gang’s deeds, and he was burdened by their growing influence. Many citizens whispered in private about the gang, but none dared speak publicly.

But the watchman stood in the square and lifted his voice:

“This is the gang that murders. These are the ones who scheme against life. These are the ones who despise authority and blaspheme God. Beware of them, and do not join them, for their path is death.”

He even named them plainly, so there could be no mistake about who was destroying the city.

Then some of the townsfolk, instead of turning on the gang turned on the watchman.

They said, “You are divisive. You are hateful. Why do you label them? That only drives them away. Can you not just speak of peace and unity?”

But the watchman answered,

“The Scripture says to make known and point out those who do these things and expose them to all. " (Romans 16:17; Ephesians 5:11).

Do you not see? It is the gang that causes division by their violence. It is they who separate themselves from God. The scriptures tell us to point them out, to warn of them, to put the light of truth upon their deeds. If I am silent, the blood of the city will be required at my hands. But if I speak, I deliver my soul." (Ezekiel 33)

So the people were left to choose:

Would they accuse the watchman of divisiveness for naming evil?

Or would they recognize that true unity only comes by rejecting and exposing the works of darkness?