How does Revelation 11:4 encourage perseverance in sharing the Gospel message? Revelation 11:4—A Quick Look “ ‘These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the Lord of the earth.’ ” Why Olive Trees and Lampstands Matter • Olive trees supply the oil—an Old Testament picture of the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 4:2–6). • Lampstands hold and display the light—an image Jesus applies to His church (Revelation 1:20; Matthew 5:14–16). • Placed together, the symbols shout: God provides the power and we shine the light. Standing Before the Lord—A Posture of Perseverance • “Standing” implies ongoing readiness, not a quick visit. • Positioned “before the Lord of the earth,” the witnesses draw courage from His throne, not human applause (Acts 4:19–20). • If He is still on the throne, quitting is never an option. God’s Supply Fuels Steadfast Witness • Unlimited oil pictures continual Holy Spirit filling (Ephesians 5:18). • No dependence on personal charisma; the power source is divine (2 Corinthians 4:7). • Even when opposition grows, the flow of grace never dries up (2 Timothy 2:1). Authority That Outlasts Opposition • The Lord grants these witnesses 1,260 days of protected testimony (Revelation 11:3). • Their words carry heaven’s authority; enemies can hinder but not halt (Jeremiah 1:17-19). • Our own gospel assignment carries the same backing—“All authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18-20). Light Shining Until the Mission Is Complete • Lampstands shine precisely in darkness; hostility only highlights the glow (Philippians 2:15). • Jesus warns that hiding the lamp under a basket wastes the oil (Luke 8:16). • Faithfulness today prepares hearts for the final harvest when the true Light returns (Revelation 22:12). Encouragement for Your Daily Witness – Draw your strength from the same endless oil: stay in Scripture and prayer. – Remember where you stand: directly before the Lord, not before critics. – Expect opposition but anticipate protection until your assignment is finished. – Keep the lamp trimmed; a consistent, Spirit-empowered testimony turns curiosity into conviction (1 Peter 3:15-16). The olive trees keep flowing, the lampstands keep burning, and the Lord of the earth keeps ruling—so keep sharing. |
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