6.3 The Two Witnesses Are Killed
The Martyrdom of Truth: The Killing of the Two Witnesses

Read Revelation 11:7–9, keeping in mind that the language is symbolic. According to the prediction of these verses, what will happen to the two witnesses of God, representing the Old and New Testaments?

According to the symbolic language of Revelation, the two witnesses of God, representing the Old and New Testaments, are depicted as being killed. In Revelation 11:7-9, it states:

“And when they have finished their testimony, the beast that rises from the bottomless pit will make war on them and conquer them and kill them. And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city that symbolically is called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. And for three and a half days some from the peoples and tribes and languages and nations will gaze at their dead bodies and refuse to let them be placed in a tomb.”

Symbolically, this means that the divine truth and authority represented by the Old and New Testaments are attacked and defeated. This is symbolized by the “beast” rising from the bottomless pit, indicating the powers of evil and deception. The “great city” spiritually called Sodom and Egypt represents moral corruption and idolatry that reject God’s truth.

The killing of the witnesses and the lying of their bodies in the street symbolize the temporary triumph of evil over divine truth and authority. This is represented by the French Revolution and the state-sponsored atheistic movement that denied the authority of the Bible and the existence of God.

The three and a half days during which the bodies of the witnesses remain in the street symbolically correspond to three and a half literal years of hostility toward the truth of God. This period reflects the peak of atheism and rejection of religious values during the French Revolution before some recovery occurred.

Overall, this passage illustrates the symbolic depiction of the struggle between good and evil, truth and lies, and shows the temporary suppression of divine truth by the forces of evil before ultimately triumphing.

The connection between the martyrdom of the two witnesses in Revelation 11:7–9 and our everyday lives in faith lies in several important aspects:

1. Perseverance in faith despite resistance: The killing of the two witnesses symbolizes the resistance and persecution faced by the truth of God. This reminds us that as Christians, we may face similar challenges when living out our faith and proclaiming the gospel. Nevertheless, we must remain steadfast and hold fast to the truth of God.

2. Willingness to suffer for faith: The prediction of the witnesses’ martyrdom calls us to be willing to suffer for our faith if necessary. Even though we may not necessarily be physically killed, we may still face resistance, rejection, and persecution in our daily lives because of our confession of faith in Christ.

3. Recognition of spiritual struggles: The symbolic language of Revelation points to the spiritual battle taking place between the forces of evil and divine truth. In our everyday lives, we must be aware of these spiritual struggles and prepare ourselves to fight against the powers of darkness with God’s help.

4. Encouragement to hope and trust in God: Although the witnesses are temporarily defeated, Revelation also prophesies their eventual triumph and restoration. This promise encourages us to trust in God and have hope even amidst difficulties and sufferings in our daily lives, knowing that His kingdom will ultimately prevail.

Overall, the martyrdom of the two witnesses reminds us that our faith may often be tested but also of the promise that God will ultimately triumph and establish His truth. It encourages us to remain steadfast in our daily lives in faith and trust in God’s guidance and support.

The martyrdom of truth stands as a testimony to God’s unwavering faithfulness, even in the darkest hours of history, reminding us that His Word cannot be broken, even if the forces of unbelief seem to have temporarily triumphed.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-the-two-witnesses-6-3-the-two-witnesses-are-killed/

6.2 Prophetic Time Periods
The Continuity of Divine Faithfulness Amidst Darkness

Compare Revelation 11:3; 12:5–6, 14–15 with Daniel 7:25. What similarities do you see in these prophetic time periods?

In the prophetic time periods described in Revelation 11:3; 12:5-6, 14-15 and Daniel 7:25, there are several similarities:

1. Three and a half years or 1260 days: All the mentioned sections refer to a period of three and a half years, symbolically equated to 1260 days. This time frame is used to represent the duration of persecution or the struggle against the saints and divine truth. In Revelation 11:3, it is mentioned that the two witnesses will prophesy for 1260 days, while Revelation 12:6 speaks of the woman fleeing into the wilderness for 1260 days. Also, Revelation 12:14 speaks of the woman fleeing into the wilderness for a “time, times, and half a time,” which also corresponds to three and a half years. Daniel 7:25 uses the same measure of time to describe the duration of persecution by the “little horn.”

2. Persecution of the saints and the people of God: Both Revelation and Daniel describe how the saints and the people of God are persecuted and oppressed during this time period. Persecution is depicted through various symbols, such as the trampling of the holy city, the persecution of the woman, or the actions of the “little horn.”

3. Testimony and preservation of the word of God: Despite persecution and resistance against the saints, it is emphasized that the word of God and divine truth are preserved and proclaimed during this time. The two witnesses in Revelation 11 are not silenced despite their persecution and continue to prophesy. Similarly, Revelation 12:6 and 12:14 emphasize that the woman in the wilderness is preserved. Daniel 7:25 points out that the saints are not ultimately defeated despite the persecution by the “little horn.”

These similarities highlight the consistency of the prophetic portrayals in different parts of the Bible and underscore the importance of preserving faith and the truth of God during times of persecution and resistance.

What teachings, based on tradition and not on the word of God, are held by many Christians today?

There are various teachings and practices held by many Christians that are based on traditions and may not necessarily be based on direct biblical statements. Here are some examples:

1. Liturgical traditions: Many Christian churches practice certain liturgical traditions and rituals that have developed over the centuries, such as the structure and order of worship services, liturgical vestments, candle lighting, processions, etc.

2. Dogmatic doctrines: Some theological content and dogmas taught by certain churches or denominations may be based on church traditions and councils and not necessarily on direct biblical statements. An example of this is the doctrine of papal infallibility in Catholic faith.

3. Veneration of saints and cult of Mary: In some Christian traditions, there is a pronounced veneration of saints and recourse to Mary as an intercessor. These practices may be based on church traditions and legends that have developed over time.

4. Sacramental theology: Sacramental theology, including teachings on baptism, communion, and other sacraments, often relies on theological interpretations and church traditions that have developed throughout history.

5. Eschatological beliefs: Some eschatological beliefs and end-time teachings may be based on certain theological interpretations and church traditions that may not necessarily align with all biblical texts.

It is important to emphasize that not all Christian traditions and teachings automatically contradict the word of God. Many traditions serve to deepen faith and strengthen community. However, it is also important to ensure that our teachings and practices are always based on the word of God and do not take the primary place that belongs solely to it.

The connection between the prophetic time periods and our everyday lives in faith lies in the need to preserve truth and faith in God despite challenges and persecutions. Here are some connections:

1. Steadfastness in faith: The prophetic time periods illustrate that the saints and the people of God must remain steadfast in faith despite persecution and resistance. This teaching reminds us that in our daily lives as Christians, we must also remain steadfast even when faced with difficulties, temptations, and opposition.

2. Preservation of the word of God: Despite persecution and resistance to the truth, it is emphasized that the word of God and divine truth are preserved and proclaimed during this time. In our everyday lives as Christians, it is important to preserve and proclaim the word of God, even if it goes against the prevailing culture or human traditions.

3. Awareness of persecution and resistance: The prophetic time periods remind us that persecution and resistance against faith can be a reality. This should sensitize us to the persecution of our fellow believers worldwide and encourage us to advocate for religious freedom and justice.

4. Critical reflection on teachings and traditions: The mention of teachings and traditions not based on the word of God reminds us to critically reflect on our own beliefs and traditions. We should ensure that our teachings and practices are always based on the word of God and do not take the primary place that belongs solely to it.

Overall, the prophetic time periods can encourage us to preserve a strong and steadfast faith, proclaim the word of God, and critically reflect on our teachings and traditions to ensure they align with divine truth.

Darkness may reign over the world, but God’s faithfulness remains unshaken, while His Word remains the light amidst the darkness.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-the-two-witnesses-6-2-prophetic-time-periods/

Lesson 6.The Two Witnesses
Bearers of Divine Truth and Triumph

The sixth lesson of our study series delves deeper into the fascinating world of Revelation, a book full of symbols, prophecies, and divine revelations. In this lesson, we will focus on Revelation chapter 11, particularly on the symbolic significance of the two witnesses.

The two witnesses mentioned in the book of Revelation represent the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, embodying divine truth and authority. Their story, their sufferings, and their triumph vividly illustrate the struggle between good and evil, truth and falsehood, which has occurred throughout human history and continues to do so.

In this lesson, we will examine the various aspects of the prophecies concerning the two witnesses, from their defeat to their revival, and how these events are relevant in our personal faith lives. We will also explore the connection between these prophecies and historical events such as the French Revolution, reflecting on the lessons we can draw from them for our lives today.

Furthermore, we will reflect on the significance of the Bible as the immutable and eternal word of God, and how we can firmly trust in its promises despite the challenges and temptations of life.

So let us join together to delve into the depths of Revelation and discover the timeless truths it holds for our lives.

6.1 Two Witnesses
The Witnesses: Bearers of Divine Truth and Transformation

Read Revelation 11:3-6. Name five characteristic features of the two witnesses that you discover in this section. Revelation 11:3-6 describes the two witnesses.

Here are five characteristic features that can be found in this section:

1. Prophetic ability: The two witnesses have the ability to predict and announce future events.

2. Power over natural phenomena: They can withhold rain and turn water into blood, indicating extraordinary control over nature.

3. Ability to inflict plagues: The witnesses can afflict the earth with plagues, indicating their divine authority and power.

4. Spewing fire: Anyone attempting to harm the Holy Scriptures will be consumed by the fire coming from their mouths. This suggests a divine punishment carried out through the word of God.

5. Testimony for Jesus Christ: The witnesses bear divine testimony and proclaim the Gospel to the whole world, indicating that their service is in line with God’s will and points to Jesus Christ.

Given the symbolic references to Zechariah 4 and the role that the Old Testament scriptures play in witnessing for Jesus Christ, the interpretation suggests that the two witnesses are the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, bringing God’s light and truth into the world.

Many Christians today tend to downplay the Old Testament, calling it irrelevant and unnecessary because we have the New Testament. What is so terribly wrong with this attitude?

This attitude of downplaying the Old Testament as irrelevant or unnecessary is problematic for several reasons:

1. Denial of divine inspiration: Both the Old Testament and the New Testament are divinely inspired scriptures written by various authors in different times and contexts. By disparaging the Old Testament, one denies the divine inspiration and significance of these scriptures.

2. Loss of understanding of salvation history: The Old Testament forms the basis for understanding salvation history. Many themes, symbols, and prophecies in the Old Testament find their fulfillment in the New Testament, especially in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Without a solid understanding of the Old Testament, Christians lose important insights into God’s dealings with his people and the thread of redemption that runs throughout the Bible.

3. Misinterpretation of God’s character: The Old Testament reveals God’s character, his goodness, justice, and mercy, just like the New Testament. By downplaying the Old Testament, one risks getting a one-sided view of God and overlooking important aspects of his nature.

4. Loss of important teachings and moral principles: The Old Testament contains many important teachings and moral principles that are still relevant and instructive today. By neglecting the Old Testament, Christians miss out on important insights into God’s wisdom and his moral claims on his people.

5. Loss of the diversity of biblical literature: The Old Testament comprises a variety of literary genres, including historical narratives, poetry, wisdom literature, and prophetic books. This diversity enriches the understanding of the Bible as a whole and offers various perspectives on God’s actions and his relationship with humanity.

Overall, it is important to recognize and appreciate the Old Testament as an integral part of the Bible, as it makes an indispensable contribution to understanding God’s word and his salvation history.

The connection between the two witnesses in Revelation 11 and our everyday lives as well as our faith lies in the significance of their message and their role as messengers of divine truth and transformation.

1. Prophetic ability and proclamation of the future: The ability of the witnesses to predict future events reminds us that God reigns sovereign over history and that his promises and judgments will surely come to pass. This realization encourages us to trust in God and take his word seriously, even when we cannot fully comprehend the future.

2. Power over natural phenomena and divine authority: The witnesses have the ability to control natural phenomena and inflict plagues. This portrayal reminds us of God’s absolute authority over creation and his ability to intervene in the world to protect his people and execute his judgment. In our daily lives, this means that we can rely on God’s sovereignty even when faced with challenges and crises.

3. Testimony for Jesus Christ: The witnesses proclaim the Gospel to the whole world, standing for the truth and light of God. Similarly, we as Christians are called to be witnesses for Jesus Christ by proclaiming his Gospel and shining his light in the world, revealing his love and nature.

4. Divine punishment: The idea that the witnesses spew fire from their mouths to consume those who attempt to harm the Holy Scriptures reminds us that God’s word is alive and powerful. It admonishes us to treat the Holy Scriptures with reverence and respect and to guard against the temptation to distort or misuse them.

The significance of the witnesses and their features in our everyday lives lies in reminding us of the truth and authority of God, encouraging us to trust in him and proclaim his word, and warning us of the consequences if we reject or distort his message.

God’s Word is like a fire that illuminates the darkness and touches the hearts of those who hear it.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-the-two-witnesses-6-1-two-witnesses/