How should believers respond to persecution as seen in Revelation 11:10? The Scene in Revelation 11:10 “And those who dwell on the earth will gloat over them and celebrate and send one another gifts, because these two prophets had tormented those who dwell on the earth.” • Literal, future prophets are murdered for declaring God’s truth. • The unbelieving world responds with parties and gifts—open, public delight in their death. • God records this to warn and to steady His people: such hostility is normal where truth confronts rebellion. What Persecution Tells Us • Truth exposes sin; expect pushback (John 3:19–20). • Hatred of God spills onto God’s messengers (John 15:18–21). • Persecution is not evidence of failure but of faithfulness (2 Timothy 3:12). God’s Vindication Is Certain • Verses 11–12 show the prophets resurrected and taken to heaven: “the breath of life from God entered them… and they ascended to heaven in a cloud.” • Believers never need to grasp for revenge; the Lord publicly settles the score (Romans 12:19). • Final triumph fuels present endurance. How to Respond When the World Celebrates Our Pain Stand Firm in Witness • Keep speaking truth lovingly (1 Peter 3:14–16). • Do not fear intimidation; revere Christ as Lord. Rejoice in Suffering • Acts 5:41—early believers “rejoiced that they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.” • James 1:2–3—trials refine faith and produce perseverance. Love and Bless Your Persecutors • Matthew 5:44—“love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” • Romans 12:14—“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” • Returning kindness highlights the contrast between God’s kingdom and the world’s cruelty. Guard Your Heart • Hebrews 12:3–4—consider Jesus, “so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” • Bitterness shrivels witness; grace keeps it vibrant. Live for the Audience of One • Colossians 3:23–24—serve Christ, not crowd approval. • Revelation 11 reminds us the earthly crowd can cheer sin; heaven’s approval matters most. Practical Steps for Today • Start each day in Scripture to anchor convictions. • Pray specifically for courage and for your opposers by name. • Choose gracious words on social media and in conversation when mocked. • Stay connected to a faithful church family; isolation breeds discouragement. • Remember future vindication: Christ’s coming makes present scorn temporary. Wrapping It Up Revelation 11:10 pictures a world throwing a party over dead prophets. God records the scene so His people will not be shocked when courage is met with contempt. Stand firm, rejoice, love your enemies, and trust the Lord who raises His servants and shames their mockers. |
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