Revelation 11:6

These witnesses have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall during the days of their prophecy, and power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish.

Study Bible

These witnesses have power to shut the sky so that no rain will fall during the days of their prophecy
This phrase draws a parallel to the prophet Elijah, who, according to 1 Kings 17:1, declared a drought in Israel as a judgment from God. The ability to control rain signifies divine authority and judgment. In the context of Revelation, the witnesses' power to shut the sky symbolizes God's control over nature and His ability to use it as a tool for judgment. The drought during their prophecy highlights the severity and urgency of their message, emphasizing repentance and the consequences of ignoring divine warnings.

and power to turn the waters into blood
This imagery recalls the first plague in Egypt, where Moses turned the Nile into blood (Exodus 7:14-24). This act was a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and a demonstration of God's supremacy. In Revelation, the transformation of water into blood by the witnesses serves as a sign of judgment against those who oppose God's will. It underscores the seriousness of rebellion against God and the inevitability of divine retribution. The act also symbolizes the corruption and death that result from sin.

and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish
The reference to plagues connects to the ten plagues of Egypt, which were divine judgments against Pharaoh and his people (Exodus 7-12). These plagues were meant to demonstrate God's power and compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites. In Revelation, the ability of the witnesses to unleash plagues signifies their role as agents of divine judgment. It highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the certainty of His justice. The phrase "as often as they wish" indicates the witnesses' authority and the persistent opportunity for repentance, emphasizing God's patience and desire for people to turn back to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Two Witnesses
These are prophetic figures in Revelation 11, endowed with divine authority to perform miraculous signs. They symbolize God's messengers who proclaim His truth and execute His judgment.

2. The Sky
Represents the heavens, which the witnesses have the power to shut, preventing rain. This act signifies divine judgment and echoes the authority given to Elijah in the Old Testament.

3. The Waters
The witnesses can turn waters into blood, reminiscent of the plagues in Egypt, symbolizing God's power over creation and His ability to bring judgment upon the earth.

4. The Earth
The realm affected by the plagues, representing humanity and the physical world under divine judgment.

5. The Days of Their Prophecy
A specific period during which the witnesses carry out their mission, emphasizing the temporality and urgency of their message.

Teaching Points

Divine Authority and Judgment
The power given to the witnesses underscores God's ultimate authority over creation and His ability to execute judgment. Believers are reminded of the seriousness of God's justice and the reality of His intervention in the world.

The Role of Prophets
The witnesses serve as a reminder of the prophetic role in calling people to repentance and proclaiming God's truth. Christians are encouraged to be bold in their witness, trusting in God's power to support their testimony.

The Urgency of Repentance
The limited time of the witnesses' prophecy highlights the urgency of responding to God's call. Believers should live with an awareness of the temporal nature of life and the importance of turning to God.

Prayer and Power
The connection to Elijah's account emphasizes the power of prayer and the importance of aligning with God's will. Christians are encouraged to pray fervently and expectantly, knowing that God hears and acts.

Endurance in Witnessing
The perseverance of the witnesses amidst opposition serves as an example for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and testimony, even in the face of adversity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the actions of the two witnesses in Revelation 11:6 reflect the authority and power of God as seen in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can the account of Elijah's drought inform our understanding of the role of prayer in the life of a believer?

3. How does the imagery of turning water into blood connect to the broader theme of God's judgment and deliverance throughout Scripture?

4. What lessons can we learn from the urgency of the witnesses' prophecy about the importance of responding to God's call in our own lives?

5. How can we apply the perseverance and boldness of the two witnesses to our own efforts in sharing the Gospel and living out our faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 17:1
Elijah's power to stop the rain is a direct parallel to the authority given to the witnesses, highlighting the continuity of God's power through His prophets.

Exodus 7:17-21
The plagues of Egypt, particularly turning water into blood, serve as a historical precedent for the witnesses' actions, demonstrating God's judgment and deliverance.

James 5:17-18
Elijah's prayer for drought and rain underscores the power of righteous prayer and God's responsiveness to His servants.

Luke 4:25
Jesus references the drought during Elijah's time, illustrating the significance of divine intervention in human affairs.