Revelation 11

Summary

 

Revelation 11 includes the measuring of the temple, the ministry of the two witnesses, and the sounding of the seventh trumpet. These events signify both judgment and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over the kingdoms of the world. The interplay between measuring, witnessing, and divine intervention emphasizes the unfolding of God's plan during a period of tribulation.

 

1. Measuring of the Temple (Revelation 11:1-2): John is given a measuring rod and instructed to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there. The outer court is excluded and given to the Gentiles, who will trample the holy city for forty-two months. This period is often interpreted as a time of tribulation.
2. The Two Witnesses (Revelation 11:3-13): Two witnesses are given authority to prophesy for 1,260 days (42 months or 3.5 years). They are identified as olive trees and lampstands, symbolizing a connection to the Old Testament prophets. They have the power to shut the sky, turn water into blood, and strike the earth with plagues. After completing their testimony, they are killed by the beast from the abyss but are resurrected after three and a half days. Their resurrection causes great fear, and they ascend to heaven while their enemies look on.
3. The Seventh Trumpet (Revelation 11:14-19): The seventh angel sounds his trumpet, and loud voices in heaven proclaim that the kingdoms of the world have become the kingdom of the Lord and of His Christ. God's temple in heaven is opened, and the Ark of the Covenant is seen. Lightning, thunder, an earthquake, and hail follow, signaling the culmination of God's judgment.

 

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