Faith without religion.
Revelation 11: Symbolism and Historical Context
In our recent gathering, we delved into Revelation 11, focusing on the intriguing symbolism and historical context surrounding the two witnesses. This session was part of our ongoing verse-by-verse study, where we aim to uncover the layers of meaning within the scriptures.
Revelation 11:8 describes the two witnesses’ deaths in Jerusalem, a city metaphorically referred to as Sodom and Egypt. This symbolic language highlights Jerusalem’s spiritual state and its historical parallels with these ancient cities. The discussion explored the Preterist interpretation, which suggests that these witnesses could represent Jesus Christ, drawing connections between historical events and biblical prophecy.
We examined the dramatic imagery of armies in the clouds and lightning, as described in Matthew 24:27 and Tacitus’ historical accounts. These elements are seen as fulfilling the prophecies of Christ’s second coming, linking them to the events of A.D. 66 and the Jewish War.
The narrative also touches on the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple, likened to Sodom’s fiery end. The Roman siege, marked by catapult-launched boulders and the emblematic lightning bolt of the twelfth legion, is seen as a fulfillment of these apocalyptic visions.
As we continue our study, we aim to deepen our understanding of these complex texts, exploring how historical events and biblical prophecy intertwine. Join us as we journey through these ancient scriptures, seeking insight and wisdom from their timeless messages.