Revelation 11:12

And the witnesses heard a loud voice from heaven saying, "Come up here." And they went up to heaven in a cloud as their enemies watched them.

Study Bible

And they heard a loud voice from heaven
The phrase begins with "And they heard," indicating a continuation of the narrative. The "loud voice" is a recurring motif in Revelation, often signifying divine authority and command. The Greek word for "loud" is "megas," which implies not just volume but also significance and power. The "voice from heaven" suggests a direct communication from God, emphasizing the divine origin of the message. This heavenly voice is a call to action, a divine summons that cannot be ignored, reflecting God's sovereign control over the events unfolding.

saying to them, 'Come up here.'
The command "Come up here" is an invitation to ascend, symbolizing a transition from earthly suffering to heavenly glory. The Greek word "anabaino" for "come up" is often used in the New Testament to describe ascension, both literal and spiritual. This phrase echoes the call to John in Revelation 4:1, where he is invited to witness heavenly realities. It signifies a divine elevation, a call to enter into God's presence, and a reward for faithfulness. This invitation is a powerful reminder of the hope of resurrection and eternal life for believers.

And they went up to heaven in a cloud
The imagery of "a cloud" is rich with biblical symbolism. In the Old Testament, clouds often represent God's presence and glory, as seen in the Exodus narrative where God leads the Israelites by a pillar of cloud. The Greek word "nephele" for "cloud" suggests a divine vehicle, a means of transport to the heavenly realm. This ascension in a cloud mirrors Christ's own ascension in Acts 1:9, reinforcing the theme of victory over death and the promise of eternal life. It is a visual representation of the believers' ultimate glorification and union with Christ.

as their enemies watched them
The presence of "their enemies" as witnesses to this ascension underscores the vindication of the faithful. The Greek word "theoreo" for "watched" implies a careful observation, suggesting that the enemies are not just passive onlookers but are witnessing a divine act that confirms the truth of the gospel. This public display of God's power serves as a testimony to the unbelieving world, highlighting the ultimate triumph of God's people over persecution and opposition. It is a powerful reminder of God's justice and the eventual defeat of all that stands against His kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Two Witnesses
These are the central figures in Revelation 11, who prophesy for 1,260 days. They are granted power by God and are eventually killed by the beast but are resurrected and taken up to heaven.

2. Heaven
The realm of God, from which the loud voice calls the witnesses to ascend. It represents divine authority and the ultimate destination for the faithful.

3. Enemies
Those who oppose the witnesses and celebrate their death. They are present to witness the miraculous ascension, symbolizing the triumph of God's power over evil.

4. The Loud Voice
Represents divine command and authority, calling the witnesses to ascend. It signifies God's approval and the fulfillment of His promise.

5. The Cloud
A symbol of divine presence and glory, reminiscent of the cloud that led the Israelites in the wilderness and the cloud that received Jesus at His ascension.

Teaching Points

Divine Vindication
The ascension of the two witnesses serves as a powerful reminder that God vindicates His faithful servants. Despite persecution and apparent defeat, God's ultimate plan prevails.

The Power of Witness
The two witnesses exemplify the power and importance of bearing witness to God's truth, even in the face of opposition. Believers are called to be steadfast in their testimony.

Hope in Resurrection
The resurrection and ascension of the witnesses provide a foretaste of the resurrection hope promised to all believers. This hope should encourage perseverance in faith.

God's Sovereignty
The event underscores God's control over history and His ability to fulfill His promises. Believers can trust in God's sovereign plan, even when circumstances seem dire.

Public Testimony
The public nature of the witnesses' ascension serves as a testimony to God's power and glory. Believers are encouraged to live lives that visibly reflect God's work in them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the ascension of the two witnesses in Revelation 11:12 encourage you in your personal witness for Christ?

2. In what ways does the concept of divine vindication, as seen in this passage, impact your understanding of justice and God's timing?

3. How can the hope of resurrection and eternal life, as illustrated by the two witnesses, influence your daily life and decisions?

4. What parallels can you draw between the cloud in this passage and other instances of clouds representing God's presence in the Bible?

5. How can you apply the lesson of God's sovereignty from this passage to a current situation in your life where you need to trust His plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 1:9
The ascension of Jesus into heaven in a cloud parallels the ascension of the two witnesses, emphasizing the theme of divine approval and glorification.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
The concept of being caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord is echoed here, providing a connection to the hope of resurrection and eternal life for believers.

Exodus 13:21
The cloud as a symbol of God's presence and guidance during the Israelites' journey, connecting to the divine presence in the ascension of the witnesses.