Have you ever pondered the mysteries of Revelation 11? What could it mean when it mentions a reed like unto a rod and the command to measure the temple of God? Delving into the first verse, we come across a reed likened to a rod. This could symbolize a measuring instrument, perhaps a tool of divine judgment. The angel, a divine messenger, then instructs to measure the temple of God, the altar, and worshippers therein. But why measure? In biblical context, measuring often signifies protection and preservation, but it can also denote judgment. Here, the focus is on the spiritual state of the temple, the altar, and the worshippers, highlighting the importance of their faith and devotion.
Now, let's move to the second verse. It instructs to leave out the court outside the temple and not to measure it. This court, given to the Gentiles, represents those outside the covenant of grace, the non-believers. The holy city, a symbol of the Church, shall be tread underfoot by these Gentiles for forty-two months. In biblical prophecy, a day can represent a year, so forty-two months could signify a a period of three and a half years, a time of trial and tribulation. But why this specific time period? In the Bible, three and a half years often symbolizes a time of suffering that is cut short for the sake of the faithful. It's a period of testing, of spiritual struggle, but it's not forever.
It's a limited time that promises an end and a resolution. So we see the opening verses of Revelation 11 set a mysterious and prophetic stage, a reed like a rod, a temple to be measured, worshippers under scrutiny, and a holy city trodden for a prophetic period. These verses invite us to reflect on our own spiritual state, our place within or outside the temple, and the trials we face. and they remind us that periods of hardship are finite and divine resolution awaits. Moving on, we encounter two powerful witnesses, but who are they and what is their role? In the heart of Revelation 11, we meet two figures standing before the God of the earth described as two olive trees and two candlesticks. They are cloaked in sackcloth, a symbol of mourning and repentance, a stark contrast to the power they possess. For a period of 1,260 days or three and a half years, these two wish to be taken care of. (Watch video for more)
Commentaires