Revelation 11:4-6: ‘Not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit’, says the Lord.

Outline

• The two lampstands
• The two prophets

Introduction

2 Cor. 12:9-10:’ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.’

The paradox of Christian suffering is that through death life comes, though defeat victory comes and through weakness comes strength. This undercurrent of paradox is what lies behind the experience of the Church in the book of Revelation and especially as it is symbolised in the two witnesses. Slain lambs defeating a dragon, beheaded victims overcoming the executioner, and the outnumbered witnesses are God’s canvases for displaying His glory, the weakness of the flesh and the impotency of the devil.

As we continue looking at the witnesses we will see that God is building His church by His power, and the church though weak is powerful.