Revelation 11:3 KJV

And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

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Revelation 11:3 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Revelation 11:3

Verse Reference: Revelation 11:3 - "And I will give power unto my two witnesses: and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth."

Introduction

The verse in Revelation 11:3 introduces a pivotal moment in apocalyptic literature, emphasizing God's power bestowed upon His witnesses during a critical period of tribulation. This passage has garnered extensive commentary, particularly regarding the identity of the witnesses, their prophetic role, and the significance of their attire and duration of ministry.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of divine empowerment in this passage. He notes that God "gives power" to His witnesses, indicating that their authority and ability to prophesy is not self-derived but rather divinely bestowed. This underscores the importance of relying on God's strength in ministry.

Henry elaborates on the concept of the "two witnesses," suggesting they symbolize the Church's testimony throughout the ages. He asserts that their duration of "a thousand two hundred and threescore days" signifies a temporary yet intense period of witness, mirroring the time frame of three and a half years, often associated with significant prophetic events in Scripture.

He draws attention to their attire, "clothed in sackcloth," which reflects mourning, humility, and a call to repentance. This attire serves as a visual cue of the seriousness of their message and the urgent call to turn from sin during these trying times.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides a detailed exposition of the symbolic implications of the "two witnesses." He explores the possibility that they represent the Law and the Prophets or the two distinct aspects of God's revelation through both the Old and New Testaments. This duality signifies the completeness of God's message to humanity and His ongoing plan for redemption.

Barnes also reflects on the prophetic ministry of the witnesses, suggesting their role during this designated period is to deliver a message of warning and judgment. Their presence serves as a testament to God’s patience and mercy even amid tribulation. The prophetic nature of their mission correlates with the overarching theme of Revelation: God's sovereignty amidst chaos.

The noted duration of their testimony (1260 days) is paralleled with similar prophetic timelines, suggesting a divine orchestration of events that aligns with God's redemptive history. Barnes articulates that their ultimate fate and the resistance they face are reflections of the Church's struggle against spiritual adversities.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke offers a comprehensive look at the concept of prophetic witness in Revelation 11:3. He discusses the identity of the witnesses, suggesting that they may embody the Church or specific prophetic figures as representatives of God's truth. Clarke stresses the importance of context in interpreting these figures, urging readers to consider the historical and spiritual implications of their witness.

Clarke notes that the "sackcloth" signifies mourning and a prophetic call, serving as a symbol of grief over the apostasy and sinfulness prevalent in society. This representation highlights the witnesses' role in not only foretelling judgment but also calling God’s people back to a place of repentance.

Moreover, Clarke delves into the eschatological context, suggesting that the specified duration of their witness should be viewed through the lens of both historical and future implications. Their period of testimony stands as a reminder of the urgency of repentance and the reality of divine judgment against sin.

Conclusion

Revelation 11:3 encapsulates a profound truth relevant to both the early Christian community and contemporary believers. It serves as a clarion call for endurance and faithfulness in witness, reminding us of the divine empowerment we receive to proclaim God’s truth in the face of adversity.

The commentary from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke collectively enriches our understanding of this verse by highlighting themes of divine authority, prophetic urgency, and the call to repentance. Their insights invite pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars to reflect on the implications of being God’s witnesses in a world often resistant to prophetic truth.