Revelation 11:1

And there was giuen me a reede like vnto a rod, and the Angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the Temple of God, and the Altar, and them that worship therein. Revelation 11:1 (KJV)

The book of Revelation, traditionally attributed to the apostle John, is a prophetic book that unveils the future events leading up to the culmination of God’s plan for the world. In Revelation 11, John is given a vision of the two witnesses and their ministry during the end times.

The Reed Like unto a Rod: In this verse, John describes receiving a reed that resembles a measuring rod. This imagery symbolizes the authority and responsibility given to John to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there. The measuring act signifies the evaluation and judgment of these elements.

Rise and Measure the Temple of God: The temple mentioned here is a reference to the physical temple in Jerusalem, as confirmed by Revelation 11:2, which speaks of the holy city and the court outside the temple. The “holy city” is universally recognized as Jerusalem, indicating a physical temple rather than a spiritual one. The temple mentioned here is also likely a reference to a spiritual temple, representing the people of God or the Church, since believers are often called the temple of God in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 3:16). John is instructed to measure the temple, indicating an examination or assessment of the spiritual state of God’s people during the end times.

Measure the Altar: The altar represents the place of sacrifice and worship. In this context, it refers to the worship offered to God by believers. The measuring of the altar signifies the scrutiny of the genuineness and sincerity of the worship and devotion of God’s people.

Them That Worship Therein: This phrase emphasizes the importance of sincere worshipers within the temple. It refers to the faithful believers who genuinely seek and worship God. The purpose of measuring them is to discern the true followers of Christ amidst a world influenced by false doctrines and deception.

Application: As believers, we can draw several lessons from this verse. We should evaluate our own lives, worship, and devotion to God, asking whether we are sincerely following Him and living according to His Word. We need to discern between true and false worship, for God desires heartfelt worship and dedication, not mere religious rituals or empty ceremonies. We should be vigilant in identifying false teachings and doctrines that may lead us astray from the truth of God’s Word. This verse reminds us of the importance of remaining faithful to God, especially in the midst of challenging times and the increasing deception in the world.

Remember that the book of Revelation contains highly symbolic language, and interpretations may vary. It is advisable to consult trusted biblical commentaries and study resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of this prophetic book.