Introduction
In the middle of the Tribulation, God raises up two extraordinary witnesses who stand boldly for truth in a world consumed by deception. The story of the two witnesses in Revelation 11 is especially significant. Their message is not new—it is ancient. It is the same testimony found in the Law and the Prophets, now proclaimed with urgency in the darkest hour of human history.
These two witnesses are not merely figures in prophecy—they are a declaration: God always has a voice, even in judgment.
The Identity of the Two Witnesses
A. Rooted in the Law and the Prophets
The Scriptures of the early church were the Old Testament—the Law and the Prophets. These Scriptures pointed forward to Christ:
- His first coming in humility
- His ministry of redemption
- His second coming in judgment
The two witnesses stand as living representatives of this complete testimony.
B. Reflected in Moses and Elijah
Their miracles unmistakably mirror two towering figures:
- Moses – turned water to blood, brought plagues → represents the Law
- Elijah – called down fire, shut the heavens → represents the Prophets
Together, they embody the full witness of God’s Word.
C. Confirmed at the Transfiguration
At the Transfiguration (Luke 9), Moses and Elijah appear with Christ and speak of His “decease”—literally His exodus.
This is no coincidence.
- Moses → deliverance from Egypt
- Christ → deliverance from sin
The Law and the Prophets testify that Jesus is the fulfillment of all Scripture.
The Ministry of the Two Witnesses
A. The Period of Their Ministry (vv. 1–4)
Their ministry spans the Tribulation:
First 3.5 Years
- The Temple is rebuilt
- They preach primarily to Israel
- A call to repentance goes forth
Second 3.5 Years
- The Antichrist breaks his covenant
- The “abomination of desolation” occurs
- Gentiles overrun Jerusalem
John is commanded to measure the Temple—symbolizing that God will reclaim what is His.
B. The Purpose of Their Ministry (vv. 5–6)
Their mission is clear:
- Proclaim truth in a world of lies
- Warn of coming judgment
- Call sinners to repentance
- Authenticate their message through miracles
Despite global rebellion, many will be saved—both Jews and Gentiles.
C. The Persecution in Their Ministry (vv. 7–10)
Truth always provokes opposition.
- The Beast rises and kills them
- Their bodies lie in the streets of Jerusalem
- The world celebrates their death
This is humanity at its worst:
rejoicing over the silence of God’s truth.
D. The Panic Following Their Ministry (vv. 11–14)
Then suddenly—God acts.
- They are resurrected
- They are taken up to heaven before the world
- A massive earthquake strikes Jerusalem
- 7,000 people die
The celebration turns to terror.
The world is forced to confront a reality it tried to deny:
God is alive, and His Word is true.
The Testimony of the Seventh Trumpet (vv. 15–19)
A. Global Hostility
The nations rage against Christ and His people. Hatred intensifies as judgment approaches.
B. Resurrection
- Tribulation martyrs will be raised
- The wicked dead will rise for judgment
No one escapes accountability.
C. Judgment
From the Temple in heaven—where the Ark of the Covenant resides—comes:
- Lightning
- Thunder
- Voices
This is the storm of divine judgment breaking upon the earth.
D. The Third Heavenly Praise
Heaven responds with worship:
- Revelation 4 – God praised as Creator
- Revelation 5 – God praised as Redeemer
- Revelation 11 – God praised as King and Judge
The story of redemption reaches its climax:
The rightful King takes His throne.
Conclusion
The account of the two witnesses teaches a powerful truth:
- God always sends a witness
- Truth will always be opposed
- Judgment will always come
- Christ will ultimately reign
At the end of the Tribulation:
- Believers will have their works evaluated
- Unbelievers will face judgment for their sins
Final Challenge
The world rejected the witnesses—but you don’t have to.
Right now, you are hearing the testimony of God’s Word.
- Will you listen?
- Will you believe?
- Will you turn to Christ?
Because the same God who raised the two witnesses…
will one day judge the world.
Prayer
Lord, help us to hear Your Word while there is still time. Give us hearts that respond to truth, not resist it. May we stand as faithful witnesses in our generation, pointing others to Christ before judgment comes. Amen.
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Dr. Alan Holden has served in pastoral ministry for more than 35 years, preaching and teaching the Bible in churches across the United States. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Luther Rice Seminary and a Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Through What’s It Mean?, he seeks to help readers understand the meaning of Scripture and grow in their walk with Christ. He is currently the pastor of Lake Saunders Baptist Church in Tavares, FL.