[303 words]
To “watch” is to be on the lookout, to be alert and vigilant. “Watch” is a constant admonition in Scripture. In addition to other words translated “watch,” the Greek word “gregoreo” appears 22 times in the New Testament. God wants us to watch, but for what?
Many of the admonitions to “watch” have reference to the Second Coming of Christ. “Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming” (Matthew 24:42). “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming” (Matthew 25:13). “Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thess. 5:6). “Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame” (Revelation 16:15).
Elders are the shepherds and oversees of the flock, the local congregation. As such, they need to watch (Acts 20:28,31). They have the great responsibility to watch for our souls (Hebrews 13:17). But all Christians need to watch! Paul exhorted, “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love” (1 Corinthians 16:13,14). Peter exhorted, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion; seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Here the word “vigilant” (gregoreo) means “to watch.”
The admonition to “watch” is often connected to prayer. “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2). “Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching” (Luke 12:37).
Dwight Fuqua
Findlay church of Christ
Sparta, TN