Understanding Revelation 11:6
The verse Revelation 11:6 states: "These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will." This verse speaks of the authority given to the two witnesses during the end times, paralleling the powers of the prophets in the Old Testament.
Summary of Revelation 11:6
This verse highlights the miraculous powers bestowed upon the two witnesses, who play a crucial role in the apocalyptic events described in the Book of Revelation. Their ability to control weather, water, and plagues evokes the ministries of Elijah and Moses, emphasizing themes of judgment and divine authority.
Commentary Insights
- Matthew Henry: Henry notes that the two witnesses’ ability to shut heaven and turn waters to blood signifies God’s power exercised through them to announce divine judgment. He highlights that these acts are reminiscent of the plagues of Egypt and the drought during Elijah’s time.
- Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes the symbolic interpretation of the two witnesses, suggesting that they represent the law and the prophets, engaging in the ultimate showdown against the forces of evil. Their miracles act as a confirmation of their divine mission.
- Adam Clarke: Clarke expands on the nature of their testimony, indicating that their plagues correspond to the judgment of nations, calling humanity to repentance while demonstrating God’s sovereignty over creation.
Bible Cross References
Revelation 11:6 connects with various other scripture passages, providing an inter-Biblical dialogue that enriches understanding:
- 1 Kings 17:1: The account of Elijah prohibiting rain illustrates similar power over nature.
- Exodus 7:14-20: Moses turning water into blood serves as a direct parallel.
- Luke 4:25-26: Jesus references the drought during Elijah's time, underlining prophetic authority.
- Revelation 16:3: Similar events occur during the plagues of the final judgment.
- Malachi 4:5: The prophecy of Elijah’s return connects to the witness role.
- Matthew 17:3: The appearance of Moses and Elijah at the transfiguration reinforces their prophetic significance.
- Acts 2:19-20: The signs and wonders during the last days echo the actions of the two witnesses.
Thematic Connections
This verse, and the accompanying commentaries, highlight several core themes:
- Divine Authority: The granted power showcases God's control over creation and judgment.
- Prophetic Role: Links between the witnesses and Old Testament prophets signify continuity in God's message.
- Judgment and Repentance: The call for repentance through miraculous signs signifies God’s mercy within judgment.
- Symbolism of Numbers: The use of two witnesses mirrors the biblical principle of confirming truth through two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15).
Cross-Referencing and Comparative Analysis
When performing a Bible cross-reference study, it is beneficial to utilize tools such as Bible concordances or cross-reference guides. These resources help in identifying connections between verses like Revelation 11:6 and others, fostering a deeper understanding of scripture.
How to Use Cross-References
- Identify keywords in the scripture, such as "earth," "power," "plagues," and "witnesses."
- Consult a Bible concordance to find similar themes and scriptures.
- Engage in comparative studies, examining how different authors approach similar topics.
Conclusion
Revelation 11:6 serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and authority manifest through His chosen witnesses. By examining this verse within the context of other scriptures, one can gain valuable insights into God's character, judgment, and redemptive plans. The cross-referencing of Bible verses enhances one's theological understanding and unveils a network of biblical truths.
Learn More
For those seeking to deepen their Biblical knowledge, understanding the connections between scripture is crucial. Engage with these practices:
- Utilizing a cross-reference Bible study system enables the identification of inter-Biblical dialogues.
- Participating in group studies can facilitate discussions on thematic connections across the Bible.
- Exploring detailed commentaries can provide comprehensive insights into specific verses.
