Revelation 11:4-6 is about the two witnesses appointed by God, symbolizing the power and authority of believers to proclaim the truth of the Gospel against all opposition, even amidst persecution and resistance.
4 These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth.
5 And if anyone would harm them, fire pours from their mouth and consumes their foes. If anyone would harm them, this is how he is doomed to be killed.
6 They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during the days of their prophesying, and they have power over the waters to turn them into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague, as often as they desire.
Setting the Scene for Revelation 11:4-6
In Revelation chapter 11, the scene is set in the grand and awe-inspiring heavenly throne room. The air is filled with a sense of reverence and anticipation as the elders, angels, and heavenly beings gather around the throne of God. The room is aglow with the radiant light emanating from the throne, casting a warm and ethereal glow over everything.
Among those present are the two witnesses, who have been sent by God to prophesy and bear witness during a time of great turmoil and tribulation on earth. These two witnesses are powerful and fearless, standing boldly in the presence of God and the heavenly host. Their presence is a testament to God’s faithfulness and power, as they speak with authority and perform miraculous signs and wonders.
As the scene unfolds, the two witnesses are given divine protection and authority to carry out their mission, despite facing fierce opposition and persecution. Their unwavering faith and courage serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who witness their testimony. In the midst of chaos and darkness, their light shines brightly, pointing others towards the truth and the power of God’s kingdom.
What is Revelation 11:4-6 about?
Two powerful witnesses are granted the ability to prophesy and perform miraculous acts in Revelation 11:4-6. These witnesses are symbols of God’s authority and power, sent to testify and demonstrate His divine presence in the world. They serve as instruments through which God communicates His message and demonstrates His control over all creation. Reflect on this passage as you consider the significance of these witnesses embodying the dual roles of prophesying and performing miracles. What message does this convey about the nature of God’s intervention in the world and His desire to communicate with humanity in various ways? How does the imagery of these witnesses strengthen our understanding of the spiritual warfare depicted in the Book of Revelation and the ongoing battle between good and evil? We can ponder the lessons we can draw from the example of these witnesses as we delve deeper into the meaning of Revelation 11:4-6. How can their faithfulness, courage, and unwavering dedication to God’s will inspire us in our own spiritual journey? How can we tap into the power of prophecy and miracles in our lives to spread God’s message of love, hope, and redemption to those around us? Let us strive to embody the spirit of these witnesses as we fulfill our calling as messengers of God’s truth and agents of His transformative power in the world.
Understanding what Revelation 11:4-6 really means
Revelation 11:4-6 unveils a captivating narrative within the Book of Revelation, focusing on the two witnesses who are granted remarkable power and authority by God Himself. These verses are not merely standalone passages but are intricately woven into the larger tapestry of biblical symbolism and prophecy. The imagery employed here is not arbitrary but draws deeply from the well of Old Testament references, enriching the layers of meaning embedded within these verses.
The phrase “These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands” resonates with the imagery from Zechariah 4:3-14, where the olive trees and lampstands symbolize God’s anointed ones standing by the Lord of the whole earth. This symbolism underscores the divine empowerment of the witnesses through the Holy Spirit, highlighting their sacred calling and mission. Furthermore, the reference to their ability to control natural elements like shutting the sky to prevent rain echoes the miraculous deeds of Elijah in 1 Kings 17:1. This power signifies not just a mastery over nature but a divine authority that transcends the physical realm.
Moreover, the witnesses’ capacity to turn waters into blood harkens back to the plagues brought upon Egypt by Moses in Exodus 7:20. This act of judgment and transformation underscores the witnesses’ role in executing divine justice and heralding the coming of God’s kingdom. Their authority to strike the earth with various plagues at will underscores the extent of their divine mandate and the gravity of their mission. These passages serve as a potent reminder of the sovereignty and omnipotence of God, who bestows such extraordinary power upon His chosen instruments.
In a contemporary context, these verses challenge believers to reflect on the nature of their own witness and the extent of their faithfulness to God. The narrative of the two witnesses inspires us to stand boldly for our faith, even in the face of adversity and opposition. The imagery of the olive trees and lampstands serves as a poignant reminder of the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit in empowering and guiding believers in their spiritual journey.
Consider a modern-day parallel where a community, gripped by a severe drought, finds hope and renewal through the fervent prayers of a faithful pastor. Miraculously, rain begins to fall, rejuvenating the land and strengthening the community’s faith. This anecdote mirrors the power of faith and divine intervention, akin to the awe-inspiring deeds of the witnesses in Revelation. It underscores the enduring relevance and transformative power of God’s Word in our lives today.
In conclusion, Revelation 11:4-6 stands as a testament to God’s unwavering sovereignty and the extraordinary authority He bestows upon His faithful servants. These verses beckon believers to embrace their calling with courage and conviction, trusting in God’s power to work through them. The interconnectedness of biblical imagery and the continuity of God’s redemptive work underscore the timeless relevance of these passages, inviting us to ponder our own role in God’s grand narrative of redemption and restoration.
How can we receive power from the two witnesses?
According to the passage, the two witnesses have the power to shut up the heavens so that it does not rain during the time of their prophesying. This power symbolizes their ability to control natural elements and demonstrates that they have authority and dominion over the earth. We can learn how to tap into similar power and authority in our own lives by observing their actions and following their lead.
Additionally, the passage mentions that the two witnesses have the power to strike the earth with plagues as often as they want. This ability signifies their ability to bring about judgment and correction, as well as to demonstrate the consequences of disobedience and sin. We can access the same power to bring about change and transformation in our own lives and circumstances by aligning ourselves with righteousness and living a life in accordance with God’s will. We can learn valuable lessons about faith, obedience, and the power available to us as believers by studying the actions and characteristics of the two witnesses in Revelation. The power demonstrated by the two witnesses is not just limited to them, but it is a testament to what is possible when we walk closely with God and operate in accordance with His purposes. We can receive power and authority to impact our world for the glory of God by seeking to align ourselves with God’s will and following the example of the two witnesses.
Application
Let’s ignite the fire within us to courageously declare God’s truth in a world that pushes back against it. Our faith, like the lampstands, should illuminate the darkness around us, showcasing God’s power in our daily lives. Embrace the authority bestowed upon us as followers of Christ, boldly voicing His message without fear. Will you step up to be a steadfast witness for Christ in a world yearning for His guiding light?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.