The identity of the two witnesses has caused much speculation as well. The simple truth is "nobody knows"! Verse 4 would seem to indicate that they are not two individuals. Verse 4 alludes to Zechariah chapter 4. There are three key points from verses 3 and 4. The first is that while evil is rampaging for three and a half years, the Lord continues to have His witnesses upon the earth. The devil cannot shut up the voice that declares that Jesus is Lord. Secondly the witnesses receive their support and strength from the Lord through the Holy Spirit. Thirdly, they stand before the Lord of all the earth. Satan is not in control, evil is not in control, the Lord is in control, and His witnesses look to Him. We must look to the Lord in all circumstances. Note that the Lord is called Lord of all the earth here, emphasising that Satan is not lord of the earth, Jesus is Lord.
The witnesses are not weak. Fire comes from their mouths against anyone who tries to harm them. This is perhaps an allusion to Elijah (2 Kings 1:10,12). Verse 6 reminds us of the plagues inflicted upon Egypt. Now, I don't think we need to take this fire as literal. Rather it is a reminder that those who persecute God's people are asking for big trouble.
Verse 6 is interesting. I don't think it means we should indulge in a ministry of plagues. However, it does imply an active role on the part of the witnesses in exercising this power. There must be something for us to learn here, but I am not quite sure what it is.
No comments:
Post a Comment