6.6 Summary
The Victory of Truth: The Prophecy and Fulfillment of the Two Witnesses

Lesson 6 mainly focuses on Revelation 11 and the symbolic significance of the two witnesses mentioned in this chapter. These witnesses represent the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, embodying divine truth and authority.

The lesson describes how the two witnesses are initially attacked and defeated, symbolizing the suppression of truth by evil, as occurred during the French Revolution. Despite this apparent defeat, the witnesses are ultimately resurrected, representing the triumph of truth and the restoration of their authority.

The lesson also emphasizes the importance of the Bible as the unchanging and eternal word of God, which preserves its power and truth even in times of darkness and unbelief. It encourages believers to rely on God’s promises and firmly believe in His sovereign plan, which ultimately culminates in His triumphant victory and the revelation of His glory.

Furthermore, the contrast between the godlessness of the French Revolution and the glorious climax in Revelation 11 is highlighted, serving as encouragement in faith, warning against godlessness, hope for restoration, and a challenge to action.

Overall, Lesson 6 teaches that truth will ultimately triumph and that believers can confidently trust in God despite the difficulties of life.

The connection between Lesson 6 and our everyday lives and faith is multifaceted and profound. Here are some key points that illustrate this connection:

1. Faithfulness in Times of Trial: The prophecies about the two witnesses in Revelation 11 remind us that our faith is often tested. Like the witnesses, we too must remain steadfast in difficult times and hold fast to God’s truth even when faced with challenges and persecution.

2. The Power of Prayer: In Revelation 11:18, we see the elders in heaven worshiping and thanking God. This reminds us that prayer plays an important role in our faith life. Amidst trials and difficulties, we can rely on God and find strength and comfort through prayer and worship.

3. Hope for Eternal Life: The visions of Christ’s reign at the end of time in Revelation 11 give us hope for an eternal future in God’s kingdom. This hope for eternal life encourages us to see our present problems and sufferings in a larger, eternal context and to look forward to God’s restoration of all things in the end.

4. The Importance of the Bible: The prophecies and symbols in Revelation 11 underscore the importance of the Bible as the unchanging and eternal word of God. By relying on the Scriptures and applying their teachings in our daily lives, we can find wisdom, guidance, and comfort to face life’s challenges.

Overall, the connection between Lesson 6 and our everyday lives and faith shows that the teachings and truths of Revelation are not merely abstract concepts but have practical applications for our daily lives. By understanding and integrating them into our faith life, we can be strengthened, encouraged, and guided as we strive toward our eternal hope in Christ.

The victory of truth stands as an enduring testimony to the mighty fulfillment of divine prophecy and the unstoppable spread of the divine Word despite dark times of persecution and martyrdom.

1.How do the principles of the Great Controversy manifest in the French Revolution?

The principles of the Great Controversy, as depicted in the Bible and in the book “The Great Controversy,” are reflected in various aspects of the French Revolution:

1. The struggle between good and evil: The French Revolution was characterized by a profound conflict between established authorities and revolutionary forces. On one side were the oppression by the monarchy, the nobility, and the church, which were seen as corrupt and unjust. On the other side were the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity propagated by the revolutionaries. This conflict mirrored the larger spiritual battle between good and evil as described in the Great Controversy.

2. Rejection of divine authority: During the French Revolution, the authority of the church and faith was heavily questioned. Church institutions were attacked, religious symbols destroyed, and religious leaders persecuted. This reflected the rejection of divine authority as described in the Great Controversy, where Satan attempts to turn people away from God and tempt them to reject His authority.

3. Effects of rebellion and sin: The violence and chaos that prevailed during the French Revolution demonstrated the devastating effects of rebellion and sin. Thousands of people were killed, and society was characterized by instability and uncertainty. This illustrates the consequences of sin and disobedience to God as described in the Great Controversy.

4. Quest for liberation and redemption: Despite the violence and chaos, people during the revolution sought liberation from oppression and injustice. This quest for liberation reflects humanity’s fundamental need for redemption as described in the Great Controversy, where God offers a way for salvation and redemption for humanity.

Overall, the events of the French Revolution draw parallels to the principles of the Great Controversy by reflecting the spiritual struggle between good and evil, the rejection of divine authority, the effects of rebellion and sin, and the quest for liberation and redemption.

2.As someone argued that there is no God, he wrote that “we are free to set our own goals and venture beyond all intellectual limits without looking at prohibition signs.” Why is this formulation “without looking at prohibition signs” so revealing of the motives of many who reject God? How could such ideas help explain some of what happened during the French Revolution?

The formulation “without looking at prohibition signs” is revealing of the motives of many who reject God because it expresses the human desire for autonomy and self-determination. By emphasizing that one is “free to set their own goals” and “venture beyond all intellectual limits,” it expresses the desire to detach oneself from any external authority or restriction and focus solely on one’s own ideas and desires. This mindset is typical of those who reject God as they reject the notion of a higher authority and instead emphasize their own autonomy.

Similar ideas played a crucial role during the French Revolution. The revolutionaries sought a society where they rejected the norms and values imposed by the monarchy and the church. They aimed to liberate themselves from any external control and realize their own ideas of freedom and equality. This led to a rebellion against traditional authorities and a upheaval of the existing social order.

The idea of “without looking at prohibition signs” was a central part of the ideology of many revolutionaries who believed that they could shake off the chains of oppression and build a new, better society without the constraints of religion and monarchy. However, this also led to a radical upheaval characterized by violence, chaos, and destruction as the revolutionary forces rejected any authority and order they viewed as obstacles to their goals.

Overall, the emphasis on autonomy and the rejection of external constraints, as expressed in the quoted formulation, reveals the motives of many who reject God and can also help explain the motivations behind some of the radical ideas that prevailed during the French Revolution.

3.What significance does John’s vision of the sanctuary have regarding end-time events? John’s vision of the sanctuary regarding end-time events carries great symbolic significance and provides important insights into understanding end-time prophecies.

The mention of the sanctuary and the Ark of the Covenant in Revelation suggests that John had a vision of the presence of God in heaven. The sanctuary and the Ark represent holiness and the divine presence. Their opening could indicate a special revelation or work of God occurring during end-time events.

For Christians, the Ark of the Covenant often symbolizes the law of God kept in the heart of the heavenly sanctuary. The vision of the Ark in heaven emphasizes the continuity and fulfillment of Old Testament promises and symbols in the New Testament. It reminds that God’s word and actions in history are unified, and that the fulfillment of His plan of salvation ultimately culminates in the revelation of His glory in heaven.

Regarding end-time events, John’s vision of the sanctuary could suggest that God will provide a special revelation of His presence and His will in the last days. The mention of the Ark and the opened temple could indicate that God will lead His people and reveal His ways to them in the end times.

Furthermore, the vision of the sanctuary in the end times could also suggest that God will protect and strengthen His people amidst trials and tribulations. The Ark in the sanctuary was a place of God’s presence and protection for His people in the Old Testament, and so its mention in the end times could indicate that God will also care for His people in the last days.

Overall, John’s vision of the sanctuary helps deepen the understanding of end-time events by pointing to God’s presence, protection, and guidance for His people.

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

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/