Revelation 11:12

“And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.”

Context:To understand Revelation 11:12, it’s important to consider the surrounding verses and the overall context of the book of Revelation. Revelation is a prophetic and highly symbolic book that reveals God’s plan for the end times. It contains visions and messages given to the apostle John about the future events leading up to Christ’s return and the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth.

The Two Witnesses:Revelation 11:12 is part of the description of the ministry and fate of the two witnesses mentioned in Revelation 11:3-1These witnesses are described as two individuals who have the power to prophesy for a period of 1,260 days (symbolic for 3 1/2 years). They are clothed in sackcloth, representing a message of repentance and mourning.

The Voice from Heaven:In Revelation 11:12, a great voice from heaven commands the two witnesses to “Come up hither.” This voice is believed to be the voice of God or an angelic messenger. The command to “Come up hither” signifies a call for the witnesses to ascend to heaven, indicating the end of their ministry on earth.

Ascension in a Cloud:The two witnesses obey the voice from heaven and ascend to heaven in a cloud. This imagery is reminiscent of Jesus’ ascension described in Acts 1:9-11. The cloud symbolizes the glory and presence of God. The witnesses’ ascension in a cloud may also indicate divine approval and vindication of their ministry.

The Response of their Enemies:As the two witnesses ascend to heaven, their enemies, who had previously persecuted them, behold them. This suggests that their enemies witness their departure and are left in awe or fear. It highlights the power and authority given to the witnesses by God during their ministry.

Symbolic Interpretation:It’s important to note that Revelation is filled with symbolism, and it’s often challenging to interpret the book with absolute certainty. Many scholars and theologians propose different interpretations for the specific details of Revelation 11:12. Some view the two witnesses as representing the Church or the Old and New Testaments, while others interpret them as two literal individuals with a prophetic role in the end times.

In conclusion, Revelation 11:12 describes the ascension of the two witnesses to heaven after a period of prophesying. Their obedience to the voice from heaven and their departure in a cloud highlight their authority and God’s approval. This verse serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and the ultimate victory of His faithful witnesses.