What does Revelation 11:12 mean?

And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them. Revelation 11:12

Explanation

Revelation 11:12 depicts a vision where two witnesses, who have been preaching and displaying the power of God, are called to ascend into heaven after being killed and resurrected. The verse is vividly symbolic and is laden with figurative language. Literally, the verse tells of a voice from heaven commanding the two witnesses to rise, followed by their ascension into the sky as their adversaries watch. On a deeper level, it suggests victory and vindication for God’s servants, a transition from earthly persecution to heavenly glory, and a public demonstration of divine approval and power.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written by the apostle John around 95 A.D. while he was in exile on the island of Patmos. Revelation presents a series of apocalyptic visions concerning the end of the present age, the final conflict between good and evil, and the establishment of God’s kingdom. The historical setting includes persecution of Christians by the Roman Empire, which may be symbolically reflected in the conflicts and tribulations described throughout the book.

Theological Insights

Theologically, various interpretations arise from this verse. A preterist view might see this event as symbolic of God’s judgment on Israel, particularly Jerusalem, which occurred in A.D. 70 with the destruction of the Temple. A futurist perspective could interpret this as a literal event that will happen in the future during the end times, with two witnesses prophesied to come. A spiritual or allegorical approach might suggest the two witnesses represent the church or the testimony of believers throughout history. Regardless of the viewpoint, the central insight is that God is sovereign, and He will ultimately redeem and honor His faithful servants.

Practical Applications

Despite the apocalyptic context, this verse can have practical applications. It emphasizes perseverance in the face of opposition and the assurance of divine justice. Believers can take comfort in knowing that faithfulness will be recognized and rewarded by God, and that temporal suffering will be overshadowed by eternal glory. This encourages individuals to maintain their convictions and integrity, even when faced with hostility or adversity.

Cross-References

• Revelation 11:3-11 – Provides the context for the work and death of the two witnesses, positioned directly prior to their ascent.
• Acts 1:9-11 – Describes Jesus’ ascension to heaven, which is reminiscent of the witnesses’ ascent in Revelation 11:12.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 – Discusses the believers being caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.
• Ezekiel 3:12 – Describes Ezekiel hearing a voice from heaven speaking to him, with thematic parallels.

Language Study

The key terms in this verse in the original Koine Greek are:

• “φωνή μεγάλη” (phonē megalē): Translated as “a great voice,” indicating an authoritative and divine announcement.
• “Ἀνάβατε” (Anabate): “Come up,” this imperative verb carries the connotation of ascension or rising up.
• “νεφέλη” (nephelē): The Greek word for “cloud,” often used in biblical texts to denote the presence of God or divine glory.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient cultures and religions, including Greek, Roman, and Egyptian mythologies, ascension into the heavens is often reserved for gods or exalted heroes. The ascent of the two witnesses can be compared to tales where individuals are taken to live with the gods, such as Hercules in Greek mythology or the ascension of Elijah in the Jewish tradition, described in 2 Kings 2:11. Furthermore, visions of heaven and spiritual realms are common among various religious traditions.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific perspective, the ascension of humans into the sky is not possible by natural means, necessitating supernatural interpretation if taken literally. The concept of a cloud as a vehicle for ascension may symbolize the abstract idea of transition to a spiritual plane rather than a physical process comprehensible by science.

Commentaries

Commentators have various opinions about Revelation 11:12:

• Dispensationalist scholars often interpret the two witnesses as literal figures who will appear in the future.
• Historicist interpreters might see the witnesses as representing the faithful remnant of the Old and New Testament eras.
• Idealist commentators may view this event as symbolic of the ongoing victory of the spirit of prophecy throughout the Christian era.
• Some scholars suggest the imagery of ascension reflects ancient Near Eastern motifs of divine vindication and glorification.