WEEK 20 MEMORY VERSE:
”For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
Revelation 7:17

Saturday, August 1, 2009
Revelation 11:1- 14
The Two Witnesses
This passage has been considered by many the most difficult to interpret in the whole Book of Revelation. It is uncertain how much of it is to be taken as symbolic and how much literal, and it is likewise uncertain how this relates to the entire context and the progression of the seals, trumpets, and bowls. What is for sure is that in the midst of this period of radical judgment and radical hardness on the part of humankind, God raises up a faithful source of testimony to the truth. Many believe these two witnesses are symbolic of the testimony of all true prophets or of the entire church during this period rather than two literal men. No matter what the specific interpretation, the encouragement we can draw from this account is that 1) even in the darkest days the truth will continue to be proclaimed; 2) the world will always stand in opposition to this proclamation and gloat when it is quelled; and 3) God will always ultimately vindicate his servants who speak and live according to the truth, as symbolized by the resurrection of the two witnesses. The church will ultimately have victory over the death blow of the beast. Today, ask God to make you a faithful witness, even if there is a bit of discomfort and persecution at stake. The ultimate victory lies with those who overcome through Christ!

Prayer Starter:
Lord, whether these witnesses are literal or figurative, may I model my own life after them. Help me to boldly live my life for you, realizing that while there will always be opposition to the truth, there will also be ultimate vindication and victory for those who are faithful to you.