The account of the two witnesses killed and raised is found in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 11:3-12. This passage is a significant part of the apocalyptic vision given to the Apostle John, revealing events that are to unfold during the end times. The narrative of the two witnesses is rich with symbolism and theological implications, often interpreted within the framework of God's ultimate plan for redemption and judgment.

Biblical Account

In Revelation 11:3-4, the text introduces the two witnesses: "And I will empower my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth. These witnesses are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth." The imagery of olive trees and lampstands is reminiscent of Zechariah 4, where similar symbols are used to represent God's anointed ones, suggesting that these witnesses are divinely appointed messengers.

The witnesses are granted authority to prophesy for 1,260 days, a period often associated with tribulation and persecution. Their attire of sackcloth signifies mourning and repentance, underscoring their role in calling people to turn back to God amidst widespread apostasy.

Powers and Persecution

Revelation 11:5-6 describes the extraordinary powers given to the witnesses: "If anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouths and devours their enemies. In this way, anyone who wants to harm them must be killed. They have authority to shut the sky so that no rain will fall during the days of their prophecy, and they have power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish." These powers echo the miracles performed by Old Testament prophets like Elijah and Moses, reinforcing the witnesses' prophetic authority and divine backing.

Despite their divine protection and miraculous abilities, the witnesses face severe opposition. Revelation 11:7 states, "When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up from the abyss will wage war with them, and will overpower and kill them." The beast, often interpreted as a representation of satanic or anti-Christian forces, ultimately succeeds in silencing the witnesses, albeit temporarily.

Death and Resurrection

The death of the witnesses is followed by a period of public humiliation. Revelation 11:8-10 describes how their bodies lie in the streets of the great city, symbolically called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord was crucified. This city is often understood to represent a world in rebellion against God. The inhabitants of the earth rejoice over the witnesses' demise, celebrating their victory over those who tormented them with the truth.

However, the triumph of evil is short-lived. Revelation 11:11-12 recounts the miraculous resurrection of the witnesses: "But after the three and a half days, the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell upon those who saw them. Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying, 'Come up here.' And they went up to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched them." This resurrection serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and the ultimate vindication of His messengers.

Theological Significance

The narrative of the two witnesses is often interpreted as a portrayal of the Church's mission and suffering in the world. The witnesses' prophetic ministry, persecution, death, and resurrection mirror the experiences of believers who are called to bear witness to the truth of the Gospel amidst opposition. Their account underscores the themes of perseverance, divine protection, and the certainty of God's final victory over evil.

The account also highlights the tension between the forces of darkness and the light of God's truth. The temporary victory of the beast serves as a reminder of the trials believers may face, but the resurrection of the witnesses assures them of God's ultimate triumph and the hope of eternal life.

Conclusion

The account of the two witnesses killed and raised is a profound and complex part of the apocalyptic vision in Revelation. It offers rich insights into the nature of prophetic witness, the reality of spiritual warfare, and the assurance of God's redemptive plan. Through the lens of this narrative, believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith, confident in the promise of resurrection and the coming of God's kingdom.