"The Witnesses of Power and Purpose"

"The Witnesses of Power and Purpose"

Sermon Title: "The Witnesses of Power and Purpose"

Text: Revelation 11:3-5 (KJV)

Introduction

The book of Revelation is filled with rich imagery that unveils profound spiritual truths. In today's passage, we encounter two remarkable figures—the two witnesses—representing God's faithful servants during a critical period of tribulation. Through their ministry, we learn about God's power, protection, and purpose in the lives of His people.

To help us understand this passage, we will explore three aspects of the two witnesses:

Their Mission Their Identity Their Divine Protection

I. Their Mission (Verse 3)

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

Proclaiming God's Truth

These witnesses are given divine power to proclaim God’s Word for 1,260 days (3.5 years). Their mission is to call people to repentance during a time of great spiritual darkness. Illustration: Imagine two bright lanterns guiding travelers through a dense, dark forest. The world, engulfed in moral and spiritual darkness, desperately needs the light of God's truth.

Clothed in Sackcloth

Sackcloth symbolizes mourning and repentance. Their attire reflects the seriousness of their message, calling the world to turn from sin to God. Application: As believers, we are also called to carry the message of repentance with humility and urgency. Are we living as faithful witnesses in our world today?

II. Their Identity (Verse 4)

"These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth."

Symbols of Spiritual Provision and Witness

The olive trees symbolize the continuous supply of the Holy Spirit, empowering the witnesses. The candlesticks represent their role as light-bearers.

Illustration: Picture an oil lamp that never runs dry because it is constantly replenished. Just as the lamp relies on the oil, these witnesses are sustained by God’s Spirit.

Possible Representations

Some interpret the witnesses as Elijah and Moses, representing the Law and the Prophets, or as a figurative representation of the Church’s mission to witness to the world. Regardless, their role is to represent God’s truth and power. Application: We, too, are called to be "olive trees and candlesticks," relying on the Spirit and shining brightly in our communities.

III. Their Divine Protection (Verse 5)

"And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed."

Supernatural Defense

The fire proceeding from their mouths symbolizes God’s power to protect His servants and to execute divine judgment. Their mission will not be thwarted until God’s purpose is complete. Illustration: Think of a fortress surrounded by an impenetrable fire. God surrounds His faithful with His protection, ensuring they fulfill His plans. This recalls Elijah calling down fire from heaven (1 Kings 18), showing that God defends His people against opposition.

Encouragement for Believers

No weapon formed against God’s servants can prosper unless He allows it for His purposes. This truth strengthens us to stand boldly in faith, knowing God’s power is our defense. Application: Are we trusting in God’s protection as we fulfill our calling, or are we paralyzed by fear of opposition?

Conclusion: The Call to Be Witnesses

The story of the two witnesses is a powerful reminder of God’s provision, protection, and purpose. Their ministry reflects our calling:

To proclaim God’s truth with courage and humility. To rely on the Spirit’s empowerment as “olive trees and candlesticks.” To trust in God’s protection as we face opposition in the world.

Closing Illustration: A missionary once said, "I am immortal until my work is done." Like the two witnesses, we can step out boldly in faith, knowing that our times are in God’s hands.

Let us take up the mantle of witness, living as light in the darkness and trusting that the same God who empowered and protected the two witnesses is with us today.

Prayer: “Lord, give us the courage and strength to be Your witnesses in a world that desperately needs You. Help us to proclaim Your truth boldly, live faithfully, and trust in Your divine protection. Amen.”