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God's Two Witnesses
'Prophecy Watch' by Richard T. RitenbaughIn the book of Revelation, Jesus identifies the Two Witnesses as the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth, as stated in Revelation 11:4. This symbolic description, paralleled in Zechariah 4:14, portrays them as the two anointed ones who stand beside the Lord of the whole earth. The imagery in Zechariah 4 presents a golden lampstand with a bowl on top, from which oil flows through pipes to seven lamps, with the two olive trees positioned on either side of the bowl. This vision signifies that the oil, representing God's Spirit in its visible works, is supplied by the olive trees, suggesting that the Two Witnesses provide spiritual sustenance, likely through inspired words or teachings, to the seven churches just before the end times. Unlike the vision in Revelation 1:12-13 where the seven lampstands represent the seven churches surrounding Christ, the olive trees and lampstands in Revelation 11 specifically highlight the role of the Two Witnesses in delivering Spirit-inspired instruction during their prophetic ministry.
Who Are the Two Witnesses (Revelation 11:3)?
Bible Questions & AnswersThe Two Witnesses are described as the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth, echoing the prophecy in Zechariah 4:14. This imagery suggests a deep connection to the spiritual nourishment of God's church, as they will supply the church with oil, spiritually feeding it during a time of famine of the Word. Their role indicates a profound ministry to the church, likely occurring before and possibly during their broader worldwide mission of warning and rebuke.
The Two Witnesses (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Two Witnesses, as described in Revelation 11:4, are identified as the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the whole earth. These two figures are vital servants of God at the time of the end, serving as the primary source of light during a period of great tribulation. At this time, when the church is hidden in a place of safety, the Two Witnesses become the visible lampstands, shining brightly for God and drawing the attention of the world. They supply the church with oil, symbolizing their role in sustaining and nourishing the spiritual life of God's people, while also performing good works that glorify Him. Their light stands in stark contrast to the darkness around them, making them a target of hatred, yet their power and authority ensure that no one can hinder their work until it is complete.
The Two Witnesses (Part Four)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn Revelation 11:4, it is declared, "These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth." This statement directly references Zechariah 4:14, highlighting a significant connection to the Old Testament vision. The Two Witnesses, identified as these two lampstands, are understood to be literal human beings, described as prophets in Revelation 11:10, who will be killed and resurrected, bearing physical bodies that lie in the street as a testimony. In the vision of Zechariah 4:2-5, a lampstand of solid gold is described with a bowl on top, seven lamps with forty-nine pipes supplying oil, and two olive trees beside it. This imagery symbolizes a superabundance of oil, representing the boundless provision of God's Spirit to His churches. The lampstands, as clarified in Revelation 1:20, signify the seven churches of God, with Christ actively working among them as the central figure. However, in the context of the Two Witnesses, the two lampstands specifically represent these two individuals, distinct from the broader church symbolism, indicating their unique role in witnessing for God. The Two Witnesses, as lampstands, stand before the God of the earth, embodying a powerful testimony through their actions and words, fueled by the Spirit of God. Their role, though initially seeming small in measuring the temple, altar, and worshippers, builds toward a significant worldwide witness during the final 3½ years, demonstrating that even small beginnings are crucial for the greater work God accomplishes through His Spirit.
The Two Witnesses (Part Six)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn Revelation 11:4, the Two Witnesses are described as the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth. These lampstands signify their role as bearers of light, illuminating the truth during the end time, a period marked by spiritual drought in the last 3½ years of this present evil world. As lampstands, they are fed by the golden oil produced by the two olive trees, which represents the words and manifestations of God's Spirit. This oil flows through pipes or tubes into the lamps, enabling the churches to light up as they are called to be the lights of the world, as Jesus declares in Matthew 5:14-16. Thus, the Two Witnesses, through their testimony, provide a vital reservoir of spiritual nourishment for the church during this dark period, ensuring that the light of God's Word continues to shine amidst the prevailing darkness.
The Two Witnesses (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe first major concern of the Two Witnesses will be directed to the church rather than to the world at large, expunging worldliness out of the church.
A Calendar Summary
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod gave us a calendar, assigning the responsibility for its maintenance to the nation of Israel, not to the church or private individuals.