Pointing to Jesus (Revelation 11)

Summary:

Revelation 11 portrays the church’s witness and suffering in the world during the present age, between Christ’s first and second comings. 

The chapter describes two witnesses prophesying for 1,260 days (a symbolic period representing the church age), clothed in sackcloth, signifying their humble yet powerful testimony amidst persecution. 

These witnesses, empowered by God, proclaim His truth, likened to fire from their mouths, and are protected until their testimony is complete. 

Their death at the hands of the beast symbolizes the church’s suffering and apparent defeat, but their resurrection and ascension after three-and-a-half days reflect the church’s ultimate vindication and triumph through God’s power. 

The seventh trumpet sounds, heralding God’s kingdom and judgment, affirming that Christ reigns over all history, despite appearances of evil’s temporary dominance.

The events are not tied to a literal future tribulation or millennium but symbolize the church’s ongoing mission and spiritual conflict throughout history. 

The temple’s measurement (11:1-2) signifies God’s preservation of His people (the true temple) amidst a world under judgment, with the “outer court” left unprotected, indicating the church’s vulnerability to persecution yet spiritual security in Christ. 

The witnesses’ ministry, suffering, and vindication are all under divine control, fulfilling God’s redemptive purposes.

Pointing to Jesus:

Revelation 11 points to Jesus as the ultimate faithful witness (Rev. 1:5, 3:14) whose life, death, and resurrection form the foundation of the church’s testimony. 

The two witnesses, representing the church, mirror Christ’s prophetic ministry, suffering, and triumph. 

Just as Jesus faced rejection and death yet rose victorious, the witnesses’ resurrection reflects their participation in Christ’s victory over sin and death. 

Christ’s atoning work empowers the church’s witness, as the Spirit enables believers to proclaim the gospel (Acts 1:8). 

The seventh trumpet’s announcement of God’s kingdom points to Jesus’ sovereign rule, where His redemptive work culminates in the final judgment and renewal of creation. The witnesses’ ministry is an extension of Christ’s, as He works through His church to call people to repentance, secured by His once-for-all sacrifice (Heb. 10:10). 

God’s covenant faithfulness ensures that Christ’s redemptive victory is applied to His people, sustaining them through persecution and guaranteeing their ultimate glorification.

Reflection:

Revelation 11 speaks powerfully to the Christian life, encouraging believers to persevere in faithful witness despite opposition. 

The church, like the two witnesses, is called to proclaim the gospel boldly, trusting in God’s sovereign protection and ultimate vindication. 

Persecution and suffering are real, yet temporary, as Christ’s resurrection guarantees the believer’s hope of eternal life. 

This passage challenges Christians to live with courage, knowing their testimony participates in Christ’s redemptive mission. 

God’s sovereignty comforts believers, assuring them that no trial escapes His control, and their labor in Christ is not in vain (1 Cor. 15:58). 

Practically, this calls Christians to steadfast prayer, faithful proclamation, and trust in Christ’s finished work, living as witnesses who reflect His light in a world that often rejects Him, confident that His kingdom will prevail.