How does Revelation 11:7 encourage perseverance in the face of persecution today? The Text in View “When they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up out of the abyss will wage war against them, and will overpower and kill them.” (Revelation 11:7) What We Notice Right Away • “When they have finished their testimony” – a divinely set completion point, not a moment sooner. • “the beast that comes up out of the abyss” – real, hostile power allowed a season of success. • “will wage war … overpower and kill” – persecution that becomes lethal, yet still under God’s timetable. Encouragement #1: God Controls the Clock • The witnesses cannot be silenced until their God-given assignment is done. • Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in Your hands.” • Acts 13:36 – David “served the purpose of God in his own generation” and then fell asleep. Takeaway: Persecution cannot cut short the work God intends us to finish. Encouragement #2: Opposition Is Limited and Temporary • The beast’s victory is real but short-lived (see Revelation 11:11-12; 13:5). • 2 Corinthians 4:17 – “Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory.” Takeaway: Hostile powers operate on a leash; they never have the final word. Encouragement #3: Faithfulness May Cost Our Lives—Yet It Is Worth It • Revelation 12:11 – saints “did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.” • Matthew 10:28 – fear God, not those who only kill the body. Takeaway: Physical death is a doorway, not defeat. Eternal reward dwarfs earthly loss. Encouragement #4: The Pattern Mirrors Christ’s Own Path • Witness → violent rejection → vindication (Revelation 11:11 parallels Christ’s resurrection). • John 15:18-20 – the servant should expect treatment similar to the Master. Takeaway: Sharing in Christ’s sufferings links us inseparably to His triumph. Encouragement #5: Perseverance Strengthens Today’s Witness • Steadfast believers display to a watching world that Jesus is worth everything (Philippians 1:28-29). • The courage of earlier martyrs fuels present resolve (Hebrews 12:1-3). • Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Takeaway: Every act of endurance adds another voice to the testimony that Christ reigns. Living It Out Right Now • Rest in God’s sovereignty over your lifespan and ministry impact. • Expect opposition, but measure it against God’s unbreakable promises. • Hold lightly to earthly comfort, knowing resurrection victory is guaranteed. • Let the example of the two witnesses embolden your own witness in the workplace, classroom, or neighborhood. |
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