Revelation 11:6

These witnesses have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall during the days of their prophecy, and power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish.

Study Bible

These men have power
The phrase "These men have power" refers to the two witnesses described earlier in Revelation 11. The Greek word for "power" here is "ἐξουσία" (exousia), which implies authority or the right to act. This authority is divinely granted, emphasizing that their actions are sanctioned by God. Historically, prophets like Elijah and Moses were given similar authority to perform miracles, underscoring the continuity of God's power through His chosen servants.

to shut the sky
The ability "to shut the sky" is reminiscent of the prophet Elijah, who prayed for a drought, and it did not rain for three and a half years (1 Kings 17:1; James 5:17). The Greek word for "shut" is "κλείω" (kleio), meaning to close or lock. This act signifies divine judgment and control over nature, highlighting the witnesses' role in executing God's will on earth.

so that no rain will fall
The phrase "so that no rain will fall" indicates a direct consequence of the witnesses' authority. Rain, a symbol of God's blessing and provision, being withheld signifies judgment and a call to repentance. In the biblical context, rain is often associated with God's favor (Deuteronomy 11:14), and its absence serves as a powerful sign of divine displeasure.

during the days of their prophecy
"During the days of their prophecy" suggests a specific, divinely appointed period for the witnesses' ministry. The Greek word for "prophecy" is "προφητεία" (propheteia), which involves speaking forth God's message. This period is marked by both proclamation and miraculous signs, emphasizing the urgency and importance of their message.

and they have power to turn the waters into blood
The ability "to turn the waters into blood" echoes the first plague in Egypt (Exodus 7:17-21), where Moses turned the Nile into blood. This act serves as a sign of judgment and a call to repentance. The transformation of water, a source of life, into blood, a symbol of death, underscores the severity of God's warnings through His witnesses.

and to strike the earth with every kind of plague
The phrase "and to strike the earth with every kind of plague" indicates the breadth of the witnesses' authority to execute divine judgment. The Greek word for "plague" is "πληγή" (plege), meaning a blow or wound. This power to inflict plagues recalls the plagues of Egypt, serving as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of rebellion against Him.

as often as they wish
The concluding phrase "as often as they wish" highlights the autonomy granted to the witnesses within the scope of their divine mission. This autonomy underscores the seriousness of their role and the urgency of their message. It serves as a reminder of the patience and mercy of God, who desires repentance but will not withhold judgment indefinitely.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Two Witnesses
These are prophetic figures in Revelation 11, endowed with divine authority to perform miraculous signs. They symbolize God's messengers who proclaim His truth and execute His judgment.

2. The Sky
Represents the heavens, which the witnesses have the power to shut, preventing rain. This act signifies divine judgment and echoes the authority given to Elijah in the Old Testament.

3. The Waters
The witnesses can turn waters into blood, reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt, symbolizing God's power over creation and His ability to bring judgment upon the earth.

4. The Earth
The realm affected by the plagues, representing humanity and the physical world under divine judgment.

5. The Days of Their Prophecy
A specific period during which the witnesses carry out their mission, emphasizing the temporality and urgency of their message.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority and Judgment
The power given to the witnesses underscores God's ultimate authority over creation and His ability to execute judgment. Believers are reminded of the seriousness of God's justice and the reality of His intervention in the world.

The Role of Prophets
The witnesses serve as a reminder of the prophetic role in calling people to repentance and proclaiming God's truth. Christians are encouraged to be bold in their witness, trusting in God's power to support their testimony.

The Urgency of Repentance
The limited time of the witnesses' prophecy highlights the urgency of responding to God's call. Believers should live with an awareness of the temporal nature of life and the importance of turning to God.

Prayer and Power
The connection to Elijah's account emphasizes the power of prayer and the importance of aligning with God's will. Christians are encouraged to pray fervently and expectantly, knowing that God hears and acts.

Endurance in Witnessing
The perseverance of the witnesses amidst opposition serves as an example for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and testimony, even in the face of adversity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the actions of the two witnesses in Revelation 11:6 reflect the authority and power of God as seen in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can the account of Elijah's drought inform our understanding of the role of prayer in the life of a believer?

3. How does the imagery of turning water into blood connect to the broader theme of God's judgment and deliverance throughout Scripture?

4. What lessons can we learn from the urgency of the witnesses' prophecy about the importance of responding to God's call in our own lives?

5. How can we apply the perseverance and boldness of the two witnesses to our own efforts in sharing the Gospel and living out our faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 17:1
Elijah's power to stop the rain is a direct parallel to the authority given to the witnesses, highlighting the continuity of God's power through His prophets.

Exodus 7:17-21
The plagues of Egypt, particularly turning water into blood, serve as a historical precedent for the witnesses' actions, demonstrating God's judgment and deliverance.

James 5:17-18
Elijah's prayer for drought and rain underscores the power of righteous prayer and God's responsiveness to His servants.

Luke 4:25
Jesus references the drought during Elijah's time, illustrating the significance of divine intervention in human affairs.