The Two Witnesses

Revelation 11:3 (KJV):

“And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.”

Explanation and Interpretation:

1. Context of Revelation Chapter 11:

  • Measuring the Temple: Prior to this verse, John is instructed to measure the temple of God, symbolizing God’s protection and ownership of His people (Revelation 11:1-2).
  • Introduction of the Two Witnesses: Verse 3 introduces two significant figures who play a crucial role during a period of tribulation.

2. The Two Witnesses:

  • Identity:
    • Literal Interpretation:
      • Some believe the two witnesses are actual individuals who will appear in the end times. Common suggestions include:
        • Moses and Elijah: Representing the Law and the Prophets; both performed miracles similar to those described (Revelation 11:6).
        • Enoch and Elijah: Both were taken to heaven without experiencing death (Genesis 5:24; 2 Kings 2:11).
        • Two Future Prophets: Unique end-time figures empowered by God.
    • Symbolic Interpretation:
      • Others see the witnesses as symbolic representations of:
        • The Church: Bearing witness to God’s truth.
        • Israel and the Church: Representing God’s people from both covenants.
        • The Law and the Prophets: Embodying the entirety of God’s revealed Word.
  • Characteristics:
    • Clothed in Sackcloth:
      • Sackcloth is a coarse material worn during mourning or repentance (Joel 1:13).
      • Indicates the somber nature of their message and a call to repentance.
    • Prophesying:
      • They deliver God’s messages, likely including warnings, judgments, and calls for repentance during a time of widespread unbelief.

3. Duration of Their Ministry:

  • “A thousand two hundred and threescore days”:
    • Equals 1,260 days, which is approximately 42 months or 3.5 years.
    • This period is significant in apocalyptic literature, corresponding to times of persecution and tribulation (Daniel 7:25; Revelation 12:6).

4. Powers and Actions of the Two Witnesses (Verses 5-6):

  • Miraculous Abilities:
    • Fire from Their Mouths:
      • Can devour their enemies, symbolizing divine protection and judgment.
    • Control Over Weather:
      • Ability to shut the sky so no rain falls, reminiscent of Elijah’s miracle (1 Kings 17:1).
    • Turning Water into Blood:
      • Echoes Moses’ plague upon Egypt (Exodus 7:17-21).
    • Striking the Earth with Plagues:
      • Demonstrates God’s power and serves as a sign to provoke repentance.

5. Death and Resurrection (Verses 7-12):

  • Confrontation with the Beast:
    • The beast from the abyss wages war against them, overpowers, and kills them.
  • Public Display:
    • Their bodies lie in the street of the “great city” for three and a half days, and people rejoice over their death.
  • Resurrection and Ascension:
    • After three and a half days, God breathes life into them, and they stand up, causing fear.
    • They hear a loud voice from heaven saying, “Come up here,” and they ascend to heaven in a cloud.

6. Theological Significance:

  • Witnessing and Martyrdom:
    • The witnesses exemplify faithful proclamation of God’s truth in the face of opposition.
    • Their death and resurrection mirror Christ’s own experience and victory over death.
  • Judgment and Mercy:
    • Their ministry serves as both a warning of impending judgment and an opportunity for repentance.
  • God’s Sovereignty:
    • The events highlight God’s control over history and His ultimate triumph over evil.

7. Interpretative Views:

  • Futurist Perspective:
    • Sees the two witnesses as future prophets during the Great Tribulation before Christ’s return.
  • Historicist Perspective:
    • Identifies the witnesses with historical figures or movements within church history that stood against corruption.
  • Idealist (Symbolic) Perspective:
    • Views them as symbols of the Church’s enduring witness or the persistent testimony of God’s Word.
  • Preterist Perspective:
    • Believes the prophecy was fulfilled in the first century, possibly relating to events surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.

8. Application for Believers:

  • Faithful Witness:
    • Encourages Christians to boldly share their faith, even amidst adversity.
  • Perseverance:
    • Demonstrates the importance of steadfastness in proclaiming truth.
  • Hope in Resurrection:
    • Affirms belief in God’s power over death and the promise of eternal life.
  • Call to Repentance:
    • Serves as a reminder of the urgency to turn to God.

Conclusion:

Revelation 11:3 introduces the two witnesses as pivotal figures symbolizing God’s message and authority during a time of great trial. Whether interpreted literally or symbolically, their story underscores themes of prophetic witness, divine judgment, mercy, and ultimate victory over evil. The passage invites readers to reflect on their own role in bearing witness to their faith and trusting in God’s sovereign plan.