The Two Witnesses Introduced | Revelation 11:1-6
Revelation 11 opens a fascinating window into the final years of human history, revealing God's unwavering commitment to reach hearts even in the darkest times. At the center of this passage is a rebuilt temple in Jerusalem, a structure that emerges during the tribulation period through a deceptive peace accord. When John is instructed to measure this temple, we discover something profound: God isn't concerned with architectural dimensions but with the spiritual condition of hearts. The measuring represents divine assessment—how will Israel respond when the Antichrist's true nature is revealed? This speaks directly to our own lives today. We are each temples of the Holy Spirit, and God measures us not by perfection or performance, but by the loyalty of our hearts. The passage reminds us that God's love for Israel—and for us—persists through deception and darkness. Even when we're deceived or have wandered, God works to unveil truth and call us back. The imagery of sackcloth-wearing witnesses mourning over a rebellious world challenges us to examine our own hearts: Do we grieve over the lostness around us? Are we willing to be faithful witnesses regardless of the cost? This chapter isn't just about future events; it's about the character of a God who refuses to leave anyone without a witness, who measures hearts with mercy, and who calls us to faithful obedience even when the world celebrates rebellion.