Lesson 06- The Two Witnesses

(May 04 - May 10)

Memory Text:  “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8).

 

Read for This Week’s Study: Revelation 11:3-6; Zechariah 4:14; Revelation 12:5-6; Revelation 12:14-15; Daniel 7:25; Isaiah 54:17; Psalms 119:89; Revelation 11:15-18.

 

1.   Identification of the Two Witnesses: Revelation 11:3-6 outlines several key features of the two witnesses. They have the power to prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth. They are described as two olive trees and two lampstands standing before the God of the earth. They have the power to shut heaven so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy, and they have power over waters to turn them to blood and to strike the earth with plagues as often as they desire.

 

NOTE: In the context of our lesson this week, the two witnesses are understood to symbolize the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, which bear witness to God's truth, His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, and His ongoing work in the world.

 

2.   Olive Trees and Lampstands: In Zechariah 4:1-14, two olive trees are seen standing beside a golden lampstand, symbolizing the two anointed ones who stand before the Lord of the whole earth. The olive trees provide oil to keep the lampstand giving light continually. This imagery represents God's Word being proclaimed in the power of the Holy Spirit to enlighten the world (Psalms 119:105; Zechariah 4:6).

 

3.   Power of Prophecy: The ability of the two witnesses to prophesy and control natural elements mirrors the actions of biblical figures like Elijah and Moses. Elijah declared a drought upon Israel, and rain ceased for three and a half years until his prayer brought rain again (James 5:17; 1 Kings 17:1-18:46). Similarly, Moses brought plagues upon Egypt by the word of God, including turning water into blood (Exodus 7:1-25).

 

4.   Judgment Pronounced: Those who oppose or seek to harm the Scriptures will face judgment, symbolized by fire coming from the mouths of the two witnesses. Jeremiah 5:14 illustrates this concept, portraying God's word as fire in the mouth that consumes those who reject it.

 

5.   Testimony of Jesus: Jesus Himself affirms the testimony of the Scriptures, declaring that the Old Testament testifies of Him (John 5:39). The gospel, as a witness to the world, is based on both the Old and New Testaments (Matthew 24:14). Thus, the Old and New Testaments collectively serve as witnesses, communicating God's light and truth to humanity.

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.   Why do you think the imagery of olive trees and lampstands is used to represent the two witnesses in Revelation? How does this imagery enhance our understanding of their role?

 

Answer: The imagery of olive trees and lampstands symbolizes the source of light and nourishment, highlighting the spiritual sustenance provided by the Word of God through the Holy Spirit.

 

2.   How does the power of prophecy displayed by the two witnesses correlate with their identification as the Old and New Testaments? What significance does this hold for understanding their role in God's plan?

 

Answer: The ability to prophesy reflects the predictive and revelatory nature of Scripture, guiding humanity and revealing God's will throughout history.

 

3.   What implications does the concept of judgment pronounced by the two witnesses have for believers and non-believers alike? How should we respond to this aspect of their testimony?

 

Answer: The judgment pronounced underscores the seriousness of rejecting God's Word and the consequences it entails. Believers are called to uphold and obey Scripture, while non-believers are urged to heed its message and repent.

 

4.   In what ways does the attitude of downplaying the Old Testament impact our understanding of Scripture and the Christian faith? How can we cultivate a holistic appreciation for both the Old and New Testaments?

 

Answer: Downplaying the Old Testament diminishes our understanding of God's redemptive plan throughout history and the continuity of His message. Embracing the Old Testament enriches our comprehension of God's character, His promises, and the fulfillment found in Christ.

 

5.   How can the testimony of the Scriptures, embodied by the two witnesses, inspire and equip believers to persevere amidst opposition and persecution?

 

Answer: The unwavering testimony of the Scriptures, symbolized by the two witnesses, reminds believers of the enduring truth and power of God's Word, strengthening their faith and resolve to stand firm in the face of adversity.

 

MONDAY IMPORTANT POINTS

 

Title: Prophetic Time Periods

 

1.   Prophetic Time Periods in Revelation and Daniel: Revelation 11:3 describes the prophesying of the two witnesses for 1,260 days, equating to 42 months in Revelation 13:5. Similarly, Revelation 12:6, 12:14, and 13:5 refer to a time period of 1,260 days or 42 months. This period mirrors the "time, times, and half a time" mentioned in Daniel 7:25, symbolizing the duration of persecution against God's people.

 

2.   Persecution and Spiritual Darkness: During the prophesied time period, symbolized by 1,260 days or 42 months, there was widespread persecution of those who upheld the authority of Scripture. This persecution intensified during the papal dominion from AD 538 to 1798, characterized by spiritual darkness, human traditions superseding biblical truths, and the suppression of God's Word under layers of tradition and ritual.

 

3.   Preservation of God's Word: Despite the spiritual darkness and persecution, God's Word, represented by the two witnesses (Old and New Testaments), persisted. Though clothed in sackcloth, symbolizing obscurity and suppression, the Bible continued to prophesy, preserving its truths. Faithful individuals and reformers throughout history, such as the Waldenses and the Protestant Reformers, upheld and lived by the precepts of God's Word amidst opposition.

 

4.   Challenge of Traditions Over Scripture: The historical example of the medieval church underscores the danger of elevating human traditions above the authority of Scripture. Many teachings within Christianity today are based on tradition rather than the explicit teachings of the Bible. This deviation from biblical truth can lead to spiritual confusion, hinder personal growth, and distort the message of the Gospel.

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.   How does the repetition of the 1,260-day and 42-month time periods across various passages in Revelation emphasize the significance of this prophetic period? What themes or events do these time periods symbolize?

 

Answer: The repetition of these time periods underscores their importance in prophetic symbolism, highlighting a period of persecution, spiritual warfare, and the endurance of God's people amidst adversity. They symbolize the duration of challenges faced by believers and the faithfulness of God throughout history.

 

2.   What lessons can we learn from the preservation of God's Word during times of spiritual darkness and persecution, as exemplified by the medieval church era? How does this historical context inform our understanding of the importance of Scripture today?

 

Answer: The preservation of God's Word reminds us of its enduring power and significance, even in the face of opposition. It underscores the importance of upholding biblical truth and resisting the influence of human traditions that may distort or undermine the message of Scripture. This historical context emphasizes the need for believers to engage with Scripture diligently and discerningly in our contemporary context.

 

3.   In what ways can the challenge of traditions over Scripture impact the unity and effectiveness of the Church today? How can believers navigate this challenge while maintaining a commitment to biblical truth and fostering unity within the body of Christ?

 

Answer: The dominance of tradition over Scripture can lead to doctrinal disputes, division within the Church, and a departure from the central message of the Gospel. Believers can navigate this challenge by prioritizing the authority of Scripture, engaging in thoughtful study and interpretation, and fostering open dialogue within the Church. This approach can promote unity grounded in biblical truth and mutual respect for diverse perspectives within the body of Christ.

 

TUESDAY IMPORTANT POINTS

 

Title: The Two Witnesses Are Killed

 

1.   Prediction of the Death of the Two Witnesses: Revelation 11:7-9 symbolically predicts the death of God's two witnesses, represented by the Old and New Testaments. Their bodies are described as lying in the street of the great city, spiritually called Sodom and Egypt, where our Lord was crucified. This imagery signifies a period of spiritual decline and hostility toward biblical truth.

 

2.   Historical Fulfillment of Prophecy: The surrender of civil, political, and religious authority to the papacy by the Roman emperor Justinian in AD 538 marked the beginning of the medieval church's domination. This period lasted until AD 1798 when the secular authority of the Roman Church ended with the capture of Pope Pius VI by French forces. The accuracy of these prophetic events, foretold by Daniel and Revelation, attests to the reliability of biblical prophecy.

 

3.   Assault on Biblical Authority: Satan, symbolized by the beast ascending from the bottomless pit, initiated assaults on the authority of Scripture during the French Revolution. The establishment of the Cult of Reason as a state-sponsored atheistic religion aimed to replace Christianity, accompanied by the desecration of churches, burning of Bibles, and denial of God's existence. This represented a deliberate attack on the truth of the gospel and the authority of God's Word.

 

4.   Symbolic Significance of the Unburied Bodies: Revelation 11:9 describes the bodies of the two witnesses lying unburied in the street for three and a half days, symbolizing a period of spiritual desolation and disregard for biblical truth. This period coincides with the height of atheism during the French Revolution, characterized by the abolition of religion and the suppression of religious expression.

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.   What symbolic significance do you see in the choice of Sodom and Egypt to describe the spiritual condition of the city where the bodies of the two witnesses lie? How does this imagery contribute to our understanding of the context and implications of their death?

 

Answer: The choice of Sodom and Egypt symbolizes spiritual degradation and rebellion against God. Sodom represents moral depravity, while Egypt symbolizes idolatry and opposition to God's authority. This imagery underscores the severity of the spiritual decline and hostility toward biblical truth during the period of the witnesses' death.

 

2.   How does the historical fulfillment of prophecy during the French Revolution validate the reliability of biblical prophecy? What implications does this have for our confidence in the prophetic messages contained in Scripture?

 

Answer: The accurate fulfillment of prophetic events, such as the end of papal secular authority in AD 1798 and the assault on biblical authority during the French Revolution, validates the reliability and divine inspiration of biblical prophecy. This strengthens our confidence in the trustworthiness of Scripture and underscores the importance of studying and understanding prophetic messages for our time.

 

3.   In what ways can the assaults on biblical authority witnessed during the French Revolution parallel challenges faced by believers today? How can we respond to such challenges while remaining faithful to God's Word?

 

 Answer: The assaults on biblical authority during the French Revolution echo contemporary challenges to the truth of Scripture, including secularism, relativism, and skepticism. To respond faithfully, believers must prioritize the study and application of God's Word, engage in apologetics and evangelism, and remain steadfast in defending biblical truth amidst opposition and cultural shifts.

 

WEDNESDAY IMPORTANT POINTS

 

Title: The Two Witnesses Resurrected

 

1.   Revival of the Word of God: Revelation 11:11 predicts a resurrection of the Word of God after a period of spiritual decline and suppression. It prophesies that the Word, which may have seemed dormant or lifeless, would come to life again, inspiring fear and awe among those who witness its power.

 

2.   Post-Revolutionary Revival: Following the French Revolution, a mighty revival of the Word of God occurred. Despite attempts to suppress and discredit Scripture, God raised up individuals like William Carey, who translated the Bible into numerous languages and catalyzed missionary efforts worldwide. This revival demonstrated the living power of the Word of God to transform lives and spread the gospel.

 

3.   Immutable Nature of God's Word: Psalms 119:89 declares, "Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens." Similarly, Psalms 111:7-8 affirms, "All his precepts are trustworthy; they are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness." These passages emphasize the eternal nature and unwavering reliability of the Bible, providing assurance that God's Word endures despite attacks or attempts to undermine its authority.

 

4.   Resilience of Scripture: Despite attacks and attempts to undermine its authority, the Word of God remains resilient and enduring. Ellen G. White's quote illustrates this point, noting that despite efforts to discredit or destroy the Bible, it has persisted and multiplied, continuing to impact countless lives. The Bible's resilience highlights its divine origin and power to withstand opposition throughout history.

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.   How does the concept of the Word of God coming to life again after a period of suppression or decline resonate with your own experiences or observations? Have you witnessed instances where Scripture has had a transformative impact despite opposition or indifference?

 

Answer: Responses may vary, but individuals may share personal anecdotes or examples of how Scripture has revived and transformed lives, communities, or cultures despite periods of spiritual decline or suppression. These experiences can serve as powerful testimonies to the enduring power and relevance of God's Word.

 

2.   In what ways do attacks on the authority of Scripture manifest in contemporary society or within Christian communities? How can believers respond effectively to these challenges while upholding the truth and reliability of God's Word?

 

Answer: Participants may discuss various forms of attacks on Scripture, such as skepticism, relativism, or misinterpretation, both from secular sources and within Christian circles. Strategies for responding effectively may include studying Scripture diligently, engaging in apologetics, and fostering a deeper understanding of the Bible's divine origin and relevance.

 

3.   Which prophecies mentioned in the lesson resonate with you personally, and why? How do these prophecies inform your understanding of Scripture's role in shaping history and guiding faith?

 

 Answer: Participants may share specific prophecies that resonate with them and explain how these prophecies have influenced their faith journey or understanding of Scripture's significance. Discussion may center on the relevance of prophecy in shaping worldview, providing hope, and reinforcing confidence in the reliability of God's Word.

 

THURSDAY IMPORTANT POINTS

 

Title: Truth Triumphant

 

1.   Triumph of God's Kingdom: Revelation 11:15-18 depicts the events at the close of time when the seventh trumpet sounds. It heralds the proclamation that the kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever. This signifies the ultimate victory of Christ over the powers of evil, the establishment of God's kingdom, and the fulfillment of His righteous reign.

 

2.   Permanence of God's Word: “Whatever is built upon the authority of man will be overthrown; but that which is founded upon the rock of God’s immutable word shall stand forever.”—Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, p. 288. Ellen G. White's quote emphasizes the enduring nature of God's Word compared to the transient authority of human constructs. Whatever is founded upon the immutable Word of God will stand forever, while anything built upon human authority will be overthrown. This underscores the importance of grounding our faith and actions in the unchanging truth of Scripture.

 

3.   Revelation of the Heavenly Sanctuary: Revelation 11:19 reveals that John saw the temple of God in heaven opened, and within it, he beheld the ark of the covenant. This symbolizes the heavenly reality of God's presence and the significance of His law. The law, represented within the ark, serves as the standard of judgment and reveals the genuineness of one's faith.

 

4.   Contrast Between Godlessness and Glory: The godlessness of the French Revolution, depicted in Revelation 11:1-19, stands in stark contrast to the glorious climax foretold in the same passage. While the revolution represents a period of spiritual decline, persecution, and suppression of truth, the conclusion of Revelation 11 portrays the triumph of God's kingdom, the defeat of evil, and the establishment of righteousness. This contrast serves as a powerful reminder of God's ultimate victory over darkness and the assurance of His reign.

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.   How does the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom, as depicted in Revelation 11:15-18, offer hope and encouragement to believers facing trials and opposition in their faith journey? How can we draw strength from the assurance of Christ's victory?

 

Answer: Participants may reflect on personal experiences or challenges they have faced in their faith journey and discuss how the promise of Christ's victory provides hope and strength. The assurance of God's ultimate triumph over evil can bolster believers' perseverance and resolve to remain faithful amidst trials.

 

2.   What implications does the permanence of God's Word, as highlighted in Ellen G. White's quote, have for our understanding of truth and authority in a world characterized by shifting opinions and ideologies? How can we ensure that our faith is firmly grounded in the unchanging truth of Scripture?

 

Answer: Discussion may center on the importance of discerning and upholding the authority of God's Word amidst cultural and societal changes. Participants may explore practical strategies for studying Scripture diligently, discerning truth from falsehood, and applying biblical principles to navigate contemporary challenges.

 

3.   In what ways can the contrast between the godlessness of the French Revolution and the glorious climax portrayed in Revelation 11:1-19 inform our perspective on current events and societal trends? How can we maintain hope and perspective amid turmoil and uncertainty?

 

Answer: Participants may discuss parallels between historical events and contemporary challenges, considering how the promise of God's ultimate triumph over evil can offer hope and perspective in tumultuous times. Reflection on the enduring message of Revelation 11:1-19 can inspire believers to remain steadfast in their faith and confident in God's sovereignty, regardless of prevailing circumstances.

 

FRIDAY IMPORTANT POINTS

 

Title: Further Study

 

1.   Faithfulness Amid Persecution:

 

“When the Bible was proscribed by religious and secular authority; when its testimony was perverted, and every effort made that men and demons could invent to turn the minds of the people from it; when those who dared proclaim its sacred truths were hunted, betrayed, tortured, buried in dungeon cells, martyred for their faith, or compelled to flee to mountain fastnesses, and to dens and caves of the earth—then the faithful witnesses prophesied in sackcloth. Yet they continued their testimony throughout the entire period of 1260 years. In the darkest times there were faithful men who loved God’s word and were jealous for His honor. To these loyal servants were given wisdom, power, and authority to declare His truth during the whole of this time.”—Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, pp. 267, 268. Ellen G. White highlights the unwavering commitment of faithful witnesses who proclaimed God's truth despite persecution, oppression, and attempts to suppress the Bible. These witnesses prophesied in sackcloth, symbolizing their proclamation of truth during the dark period of 1260 years.

 

2.   Consequences of Rejecting God's Word: The rejection of God and His Word by France during the French Revolution led to devastating consequences. The removal of restraints imposed by the law of God allowed the unchecked influence of wickedness and darkness, resulting in widespread moral degradation, social upheaval, and unimaginable atrocities.

 

3.   Necessity of Obedience to Divine Guidance:  “Unless the church will follow on in His [God’s] opening providence, accepting every ray of light, performing every duty which may be revealed, religion will inevitably degenerate into the observance of forms, and the spirit of vital godliness will disappear.”—The Great Controversy, p. 316. Ellen G. White emphasizes the importance of the church following God's providential leading and embracing every ray of light and revealed truth. Failure to do so can lead to a degeneration of religion into mere ritualistic observance, devoid of genuine spiritual vitality.

 

4.   Principles of the Great Controversy in Historical Events: The principles of the great controversy, involving the conflict between good and evil, are vividly illustrated in the French Revolution. The rejection of God's authority, the ensuing moral decay, and the subsequent consequences reflect the ongoing battle between the forces of light and darkness.

 

Discussion Questions:

 

1.   How do the principles of the great controversy, including the conflict between good and evil, righteousness and rebellion, become evident in the historical events of the French Revolution? What lessons can we learn from this period in understanding the broader spiritual conflict?

 

Answer: Participants may explore the parallels between the rejection of God's authority during the French Revolution and the broader spiritual conflict depicted in the great controversy narrative. Discussion may focus on the consequences of moral decay and rebellion against divine principles, as well as the role of faithful witnesses in upholding truth amidst opposition.

 

2.   Why do you think the phrase "without looking for no-trespassing signs" is instructive in understanding the motives behind rejecting God's authority? How might this mindset contribute to the events of the French Revolution, where God and His law were openly rejected?

 

Answer: This phrase highlights the desire for autonomy and freedom from moral constraints, often at the expense of acknowledging divine authority. Participants may discuss how this mindset fueled the rejection of God during the French Revolution and contributed to the moral and social upheaval witnessed during that period.

 

3.   What significance does John's vision of the sanctuary hold in relation to final events and the culmination of the great controversy? How does the imagery of the sanctuary underscore the importance of obedience to God's law and the role of divine judgment in the ultimate resolution of the conflict between good and evil?

 

Answer: Participants may reflect on the symbolism of the sanctuary as a representation of God's presence and justice, highlighting the significance of obedience to His law and the ultimate accountability before Him. Discussion may explore the implications of this imagery for understanding final events and the resolution of the great controversy.