Revelation 11:1

Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff and was told, "Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers there.

Study Bible

Then I was given
The phrase indicates a divine action where John, the author of Revelation, receives something directly from God or an angelic messenger. The Greek word for "given" (ἐδόθη, edothē) suggests a gift or a task assigned by divine authority. This emphasizes the importance and sacredness of the vision John is about to receive, highlighting the prophetic nature of the book of Revelation.

a measuring rod like a staff
The "measuring rod" (Greek: κάλαμος, kalamos) is a tool used for measurement, symbolizing authority and judgment. In biblical times, a rod or staff was often used by shepherds, symbolizing guidance and protection. Here, it signifies the authority given to John to assess and evaluate the spiritual state of the temple, representing God's standard of holiness and righteousness.

and was told
This phrase indicates direct divine instruction. The passive voice suggests that John is a recipient of a command, underscoring the authoritative nature of the message. It reflects the biblical theme of obedience to God's word, as John is not acting on his own initiative but under divine direction.

Go and measure
The command to "measure" (Greek: μέτρησον, metrēson) implies an evaluation or assessment. In the biblical context, measuring often signifies judgment or the setting apart of something for a specific purpose. It reflects God's sovereignty in determining the spiritual condition and readiness of His people.

the temple of God
The "temple" (Greek: ναός, naos) refers to the inner sanctuary, the dwelling place of God's presence. Historically, the temple in Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship. In Revelation, it symbolizes the church or the body of believers, emphasizing the need for purity and holiness among God's people.

and the altar
The "altar" (Greek: θυσιαστήριον, thysiastērion) is a place of sacrifice and worship. In the Old Testament, the altar was central to the sacrificial system, representing atonement and communion with God. In the New Testament context, it signifies the sacrificial work of Christ and the worship of believers, highlighting the importance of true worship and devotion.

and count the number of worshipers there
The instruction to "count" (Greek: προσκύνησις, proskynēsis) the worshipers emphasizes the importance of genuine worship and the faithfulness of God's people. It suggests a remnant of true believers who are devoted to God amidst trials and tribulations. This reflects the biblical theme of God preserving a faithful remnant who remain steadfast in their faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. John the Apostle
The author of the Book of Revelation, who receives the vision and is instructed to measure the temple.

2. The Temple of God
Represents the dwelling place of God, possibly symbolizing the Church or the spiritual temple of believers.

3. The Altar
A place of sacrifice and worship, significant in both Old and New Testament contexts.

4. Worshipers
Those who are faithful to God, possibly representing the true believers or the remnant of Israel.

5. Measuring Rod
A tool used for measuring, symbolizing God's authority and judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Order
The act of measuring signifies God's control and precise plan for His people and His creation.

The Importance of Worship
The focus on the altar and worshipers highlights the centrality of worship in the life of believers.

Spiritual Readiness
Believers are called to be part of the spiritual temple, living lives that reflect God's holiness and purpose.

Judgment and Protection
Measuring can symbolize both judgment and protection, reminding believers of God's justice and care.

Identity as God's Temple
Understanding our identity as the temple of God encourages us to live in a way that honors Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of measuring the temple in Revelation 11:1 relate to God's sovereignty and order in your life?

2. In what ways can you ensure that worship remains central in your daily walk with God?

3. How does understanding yourself as part of God's spiritual temple influence your actions and decisions?

4. What parallels can you draw between the measuring of the temple in Revelation and the measuring in Ezekiel 40-42?

5. How can the concept of God's judgment and protection, as symbolized by the measuring rod, provide comfort and guidance in your current circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezekiel 40-42
The vision of the measuring of the temple in Ezekiel parallels John's vision, emphasizing God's precise plan and order.

Zechariah 2:1-2
The measuring line used to measure Jerusalem, symbolizing God's protection and future restoration.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as God's temple, connecting the physical temple to the spiritual reality of the Church.

Hebrews 9:11-12
Discusses Christ as the high priest of a greater and more perfect tabernacle, linking the temple imagery to Christ's redemptive work.