In Revelation 11, the drama intensifies as two mysterious witnesses emerge, clothed in sackcloth, ready to testify to the world. Their powerful presence signifies not just a challenge to evil but a glimpse into the kingdom of God.
The Reading: Revelation 11
World English Bible1 A reed like a rod was given to me. Someone said, “Rise, and measure God’s temple, and the altar, and those who worship in it.
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2 Leave out the court which is outside of the temple, and don’t measure it, for it has been given to the nations. They will tread the holy city under foot for forty-two months.
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3 I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.”
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4 These are the two olive trees and the two lamp stands, standing before the Lord of the earth.
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5 If anyone desires to harm them, fire proceeds out of their mouth and devours their enemies. If anyone desires to harm them, he must be killed in this way.
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6 These have the power to shut up the sky, that it may not rain during the days of their prophecy. They have power over the waters, to turn them into blood, and to strike the earth with every plague, as often as they desire.
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7 When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the abyss will make war with them, and overcome them, and kill them.
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8 Their dead bodies will be in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified.
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9 From among the peoples, tribes, languages, and nations people will look at their dead bodies for three and a half days, and will not allow their dead bodies to be laid in a tomb.
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10 Those who dwell on the earth rejoice over them, and they will be glad. They will give gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth.
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11 After the three and a half days, the breath of life from God entered into them, and they stood on their feet. Great fear fell on those who saw them.
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12 I heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, “Come up here!” They went up into heaven in the cloud, and their enemies saw them.
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13 In that day there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. Seven thousand people were killed in the earthquake, and the rest were terrified, and gave glory to the God of heaven.
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14 The second woe is past. Behold, the third woe comes quickly.
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15 The seventh angel sounded, and great voices in heaven followed, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord, and of his Christ. He will reign forever and ever!”
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16 The twenty-four elders, who sit on their thrones before God’s throne, fell on their faces and worshiped God,
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17 saying: “We give you thanks, Lord God, the Almighty, the one who is and who was; because you have taken your great power, and reigned.
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18 The nations were angry, and your wrath came, as did the time for the dead to be judged, and to give your bondservants the prophets, their reward, as well as to the saints, and those who fear your name, to the small and the great; and to destroy those who destroy the earth.”
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19 God’s temple that is in heaven was opened, and the ark of the Lord’s covenant was seen in his temple. Lightnings, sounds, thunders, an earthquake, and great hail followed.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
Measuring the Temple
The chapter opens with a call to measure the temple of God, symbolizing the sacredness of worship. A reed is given to John, who is instructed to exclude the outer court, as it will be trampled by the nations for 42 months.
The Two Witnesses
Next, we meet the two witnesses prophesying for 1,260 days. These figures are described as olive trees and lampstands, standing before God's authority. They possess extraordinary powers; if someone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths to consume their enemies. They can also control the weather and bring plagues upon the earth.
Their Fate and Resurrection
However, after their testimony, a beast from the abyss will kill them. Their bodies will lie in the streets of a great city, a place spiritually referred to as Sodom and Egypt, highlighting its wickedness. After three and a half days, God breathes life back into them, and they rise, startling their enemies. A loud voice invites them to heaven, demonstrating God's ultimate power.
The Aftermath
Following their resurrection, a great earthquake shakes the city, resulting in significant destruction and fear, causing many to give glory to God. The chapter concludes with the announcement of the coming of God's kingdom, as the seventh angel proclaims it has become the reign of Christ. The elders in heaven worship God, acknowledging His power and judgment over the earth.
Why It Matters
The Power of Testimony
Revelation 11 reminds us of the importance of standing firm in our faith and sharing our beliefs, even when faced with adversity. The two witnesses symbolize resilience and hope amid turmoil.
God's Sovereignty
This chapter also illustrates God's sovereignty over history and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Despite the chaos, God's plan prevails, encouraging us to trust in His timing.
Community and Worship
In today's world, we can find strength in community by gathering in churches to worship and support one another. Apps like Sancta can help you find a church near you where you can share in this journey of faith and witness together.
Anticipation of the Kingdom
Lastly, the text foreshadows the establishment of God's kingdom, encouraging believers to live with hope and anticipation of a future where justice and peace prevail.
Coming Up Next: Revelation 12
Join us in the next chapter, Revelation 12, where the cosmic battle between good and evil unfolds! Expect to encounter a woman, a dragon, and a profound message about divine protection and the power of faith.