Revelation 11:10

And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

Revelation 11:10 (KJV)

Context

The book of Revelation is a prophetic book written by the apostle John while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. It contains visions and symbols that reveal future events, particularly concerning the end times and the second coming of Jesus Christ. Revelation 11 describes the ministry and eventual martyrdom of two witnesses who prophesy for a specific period of time.

In Revelation 11:3-6, the two witnesses are described as having the power to prophesy for 1,260 days and to perform signs and wonders. They are also referred to as the two olive trees and the two lampstands, which alludes to the prophecy in Zechariah 4:3, 11-14, where the olive trees represent the anointed ones who stand before the Lord.

Meaning

Revelation 11:10 speaks of the reaction of the people on the earth after the two witnesses are killed. Those who dwell on the earth, a phrase often used in Revelation to refer to unbelievers or those who oppose God, will rejoice, make merry, and send gifts to one another. This rejoicing is not a neutral or innocent celebration; it is a direct response to the removal of a source of torment. The term “tormented” indicates that the two prophets’ ministry was a source of conviction and distress to the unrepentant world. Their message and miracles were so powerful that the world felt harassed by them. The world’s joy is therefore a celebration of what they perceive as their deliverance from God’s messengers.

The events described in Revelation are often symbolic, and this verse is no exception. The rejoicing over the death of the two witnesses represents the world’s celebration and relief at the removal of God’s prophetic witnesses and the opposition they presented to their sinful ways. It reflects the fallen nature of humanity, which often rejects God’s messengers and rejoices in their downfall. The world’s merriment and gift-giving are a perverse parody of true celebration, revealing a heart that is hostile to God’s truth.

Application

While Revelation 11:10 portrays a scene of celebration over the death of the two witnesses, it serves as a reminder of the world’s response to God’s truth and the persecution faced by His faithful witnesses. As believers, we should be prepared for opposition and rejection when we stand up for God’s truth and live according to His Word. We should not be discouraged by the world’s rejoicing but remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that our reward is in heaven.

This passage also reminds us that the world’s rejoicing is temporary. The following verses show that the witnesses are resurrected and ascend to heaven, turning the world’s celebration into mourning. This context is essential for understanding the true nature of the world’s celebration in verse 10. Overall, Revelation 11:10 emphasises the world’s reaction to the prophetic ministry of the two witnesses, with rejoicing and gift-giving taking place after their death. It provides insight into the fallen nature of humanity and the challenges faced by those who faithfully proclaim God’s truth.