Revelation 11:1-15 / The Temple & Two Witnesses
Measuring the Temple
In Revelation 11:1-2, John is instructed to measure the temple of God and the altar but to exclude the outer court. This act of measurement isn't about the physical Jewish Temple, instead, it symbolizes the early Christian communities, which the apostles often refer to as "the temple of God" (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 1 Peter 2:4-5). When John is told to measure the temple but exclude the outer court, it indicates a boundary between the sacred community and the world. John's vision isn't about creating an exclusive group but marking the boundary where Babylon, representing the world's corrupt systems, has no power.
The Two Witnesses
The vision of the two witnesses, likened to Moses and Elijah, represents the prophetic witness of the church during this period of persecution. Their testimony is a powerful sign to the world, even as they face martyrdom. John wants the church to realize that their witness, characterized by sacrificial love and unwavering faith, stands in stark contrast to the ways of the world.
The witnesses' resurrection after three and a half days symbolizes the triumph of God's kingdom. It reminds us that while the world may believe it has conquered God, His kingdom prevails through the faithful witness of His people. The call for the church is to remain distinct, embodying the values of Christ's kingdom rather than those of the world. In practical terms, this means the church must avoid entanglement with nationalistic and worldly powers. The church's mission is to demonstrate Christ's love and justice, resisting the temptation to seek power or align with political agendas. Our identity and allegiance are to Christ alone, and our actions should reflect His kingdom values.
Discussion Questions for House Churches
How can our church community embody the metaphor of being a "temple" where God's Spirit dwells?
In what ways can our prophetic witness, like that of the two witnesses in Revelation, confront and challenge the world's values?
How can we resist the temptation to align with political or nationalistic powers while staying true to our identity in Christ?