6.5 Truth Triumphs
The Dominion of Christ and the Seal of the Law

Read Revelation 11:15–18. What events take place at the end of time when the seventh trumpet sounds, according to these verses?

Revelation 11:15–18 describes what happens at the end of time when the seventh trumpet sounds:

“Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, ‘The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.’ And the twenty-four elders who sit on their thrones before God fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying, ‘We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, who is and who was, for you have taken your great power and begun to reign. The nations raged, but your wrath came, and the time for the dead to be judged, and for rewarding your servants, the prophets and saints, and those who fear your name, both small and great, and for destroying the destroyers of the earth.’”

 These verses show that at the end of time, Jesus Christ will emerge as the victor. The kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord and His Christ. Jesus will reign from eternity to eternity. There will be a time of judgment when God will reward the righteous and punish the wicked. Those who fear the name of God will receive their reward, while those who have done evil on the earth will be condemned.

This prophecy reminds us that in the end, God’s justice will triumph and those who are faithful to Him will be rewarded. It is a promise of hope and comfort for believers who remain steadfast amidst the challenges of this world. It encourages us to place our trust in Jesus Christ, who will ultimately reign as king and be above all.

Read Revelation 11:19. What did John see opened in heaven? And what did he see when he looked up into heaven?

In Revelation 11:19, John saw the temple of God opened in heaven. When he looked up into heaven, he saw the ark of the covenant. The ark of the covenant was the most sacred object in the Old Testament sanctuary and symbolized God’s presence among His people. On the cover of the ark were depicted two angelic figures representing the glory of God above the ark.

The mention of the ark of the covenant and the opened temple indicates that John had a vision of the presence of God in heaven. The ark of the covenant and the temple represent holiness and divine presence, and their opening could signify a special revelation or work of God that John experienced in this vision.

The significance of this vision also lies in demonstrating the continuity and fulfillment of Old Testament promises and symbols in the New Testament. It reminds us that God’s word and His actions in history are unified and that the fulfillment of His salvation plan ultimately culminates in the revelation of His glory in heaven.

The stark contrast between the godlessness of the French Revolution and the glorious climax depicted in Revelation 11 has various implications for our daily lives and our faith:

1. Encouragement in Faith: The contrast shows that even in the darkest times of human history, the glory of God and His triumphant victory over evil will ultimately be revealed. This encourages Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to trust that God will ultimately be victorious.

2. Warning against Godlessness: The godlessness and chaos that prevailed during the French Revolution serve as a warning against the consequences of human rebellion and sin. They remind us that rejecting God and His values ultimately leads to destruction and suffering.

3. Hope for Restoration: The depiction of the glorious climax in Revelation 11 gives hope for a future in which God’s glory will be fully revealed and evil will be defeated forever. This hope for restoration encourages us to believe in God’s sovereign plan even in difficult times.

4. Challenge to Action: The contrast between godlessness and the glory of God challenges Christians to actively pursue justice, truth, and the spread of the gospel. It reminds us that as believers, we have a responsibility to be the light of God in a dark world.

Overall, the stark contrast between the godlessness of the French Revolution and the glorious climax in Revelation 11 underscores the importance of faith, fidelity to God, and hope in His ultimate glory in a world often marked by sin and chaos.

Thought of the Day: The ultimate triumph of truth stands as an unwavering testimony to the sovereign rule of Christ and the unchanging validity of God’s law, serving as a guide for the coming judgment and encouraging us to remain steadfast in our faith in Christ and His truth, despite all trials and challenges.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-the-two-witnesses-6-5-truth-triumphs/

6.4 The Two Witnesses are Resurrected
The Revival of Truth: The Resurrection of the Two Witnesses

Read Revelation 11:11. What predictions does this verse make regarding the Word of God?

Revelation 11:11 says: “But after the three and a half days a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood up on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them.”

This verse prophesies that after a period of apparent defeat and death, symbolized by the three and a half days, the breath of life from God would enter the two witnesses. This suggests that the Word of God, which initially seemed dead, would be revived. There would be a mighty revival in which the Word of God would come back to life and demonstrate its living power.

The fulfillment of this prophecy is seen in history following the French Revolution, as men and women were revived by God to spread the gospel. Missionaries like William Carey carried the Bible to various parts of the world and translated it into different languages, accelerating the spread of the Word of God. This verse emphasizes the living and transformative power of the Word of God, which remains effective even in times of darkness and unbelief.

Read Psalm 119:89 and 111:7–8. What do these verses tell us about the Bible? Why can we trust it?

Psalm 119:89 says: “Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens.”

Psalm 111:7–8 says: “The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy; they are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.”

These verses emphasize the eternity, steadfastness, and immutability of the Word of God. They show that God’s Word is firmly established, both in heaven and on earth. It is not valid only at a certain time or under specific circumstances but remains forever. God’s Word is truth and justice, and His precepts are reliable and established in faithfulness and uprightness.

We can trust the Bible because it is the unchanging Word of God that cannot be undermined by human attacks or doubts. Although people may try to question parts of the Bible or undermine its authority, this does not change the fact that God’s Word is firm and unchangeable. It continues to speak to the hearts of people and gives new life to those who are willing to hear His Word and follow His teachings.

Which prophecies personally resonate with you and why?

A prophecy that personally resonates with me is the promise of the return of Jesus Christ. This prophecy gives hope and assurance that Jesus will come again one day to establish His kingdom fully and to bring justice to the earth. It reminds me that present difficulties and sufferings are not permanent and that God will restore everything in the end.

The return of Jesus also reminds me that my faith and loyalty to Him matter. It challenges me to live my life in a way that I am ready to meet Him when He returns. This prophecy encourages me to focus on the eternal and not just on temporal circumstances.

Furthermore, the prophecy of the return of Jesus reminds me that God keeps His promises. When He says He will come again, we can be sure that He will. This certainty gives me comfort and confidence, especially in times of uncertainty and doubt.

The connection between these passages and our everyday lives and faith is extremely relevant and powerful.

1. The Revival of Truth: The prophecy of the resurrection of the two witnesses shows us that even in times of darkness and doubt, the Word of God is alive and powerful. This reminds us that in difficult times, we can rely on God’s Word to give us hope and guidance. In everyday life, we can trust that God’s Word strengthens us and enables us to remain steadfast amidst challenges.

2. The Eternity and Steadfastness of the Word of God: The verses from Psalm 119 and Psalm 111 show us that God’s Word is eternal and unchanging. This certainty gives us confidence and security in our faith. In everyday life, we can rely on the constancy and truth of the Bible to guide us and orient us in our lives, even when circumstances change or doubts arise.

3. The Hope of Jesus’ Return: The promise of Jesus’ return gives us hope and reminds us that our present difficulties and sufferings are not permanent. This hope helps us to navigate through life’s challenges with confidence and steadfastness. In everyday life, the prospect of Jesus’ return encourages us to live our lives in a way that we are ready to meet Him and to prepare ourselves to eagerly await His kingdom with joy and hope.

Overall, these prophecies and verses show us that our faith is not just something abstract but a living and relevant force that strengthens and guides us in daily life. They remind us that God’s Word is our hope, our foundation, and our guide, which we can rely on in all circumstances of life.

Thought of the Day: The resurrection of truth stands as a powerful testimony to the unstoppable power of the divine Word, which even in the darkest times of history comes back to life and exerts its transformative effect on those who trust in it.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-the-two-witnesses-6-4-the-two-witnesses-are-resurrected/

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/