What does "prophesy again" in Revelation 10:11 imply about ongoing Christian witness? Setting the Scene in Revelation 10 “Then I was told, ‘You must prophesy again about many peoples and nations and tongues and kings.’ ” (Revelation 10:11) John has just eaten the little scroll—sweet to the taste yet bitter in the stomach. The experience dramatizes the mixed reactions God’s message brings: joy to the believer, judgment for the rebellious. Immediately afterward comes the directive that he “must prophesy again.” Far from concluding his task, John is being recommissioned for further witness. Unpacking the Command: “You Must Prophesy Again” • Must – divine necessity, not personal preference (cf. Acts 4:20). • Prophesy – speak God’s authoritative word, both foretelling future events and forth-telling present truth (Jeremiah 1:7–10). • Again – there is more to say; earlier testimony was genuine but incomplete. God’s revelation is progressive, moving toward the climactic return of Christ. What “Prophesy” Looks Like in Scripture • Proclamation of repentance and faith (Jonah 3:1–4). • Warning of coming judgment (Ezekiel 33:7–9). • Comfort for God’s people (Isaiah 40:1–2). • Clear testimony to Jesus (Revelation 19:10: “the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy”). • Edification, encouragement, and consolation within the church (1 Corinthians 14:3). The Global Scope: Peoples, Nations, Tongues, Kings Revelation’s fourfold description mirrors the Great Commission: • Matthew 28:19 – “all nations.” • Acts 1:8 – “to the ends of the earth.” • Revelation 5:9; 7:9 – the redeemed are “from every tribe and language and people and nation.” • 1 Timothy 2:1–4 – prayer “for kings and all in authority” so that the gospel may advance. John’s assignment anticipates the church’s worldwide witness during the last days and underscores that no demographic, culture, or authority is exempt from hearing God’s word. Implications for Believers Today • Ongoing mandate – The era of Spirit-empowered proclamation did not end with the apostles (Acts 2:17–18). • Boldness amid opposition – Like John, believers speak even when the message is “bitter” to its hearers (2 Timothy 4:2). • Comprehensive outreach – Local congregations must think globally, supporting translation, missions, and evangelism that cross linguistic and cultural barriers. • Prophetic lifestyle – Integrity, compassion, and holiness lend credibility to spoken testimony (Philippians 2:15). • Readiness for future chapters – As Revelation’s judgments unfold, the church is still on mission; witness continues right up to Christ’s return (Matthew 24:14). Practical Ways to Live Out This Mandate • Immerse yourself in Scripture so the word you share is God’s, not merely opinion (Colossians 3:16). • Cultivate sensitivity to the Spirit’s promptings; He guides when and how to speak (John 16:13). • Support and participate in missions that reach unreached peoples and languages. • Engage civic leaders and public spheres respectfully yet truthfully, remembering “kings” are included in the audience. • Encourage one another in the local church to exercise prophetic gifts—speaking edification, exhortation, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:1, 3). The angel’s word to John still echoes: we must prophesy again—faithfully, courageously, and continuously—until every people, nation, tongue, and king has heard the unchanging gospel of Jesus Christ. |
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