The book of Revelation contains many intriguing prophecies about the end times, including the mysterious figures known as the two witnesses. These individuals play a significant role during the tribulation period, but Bible scholars have debated their exact identities. Let’s explore what Scripture reveals about who are the 2 witnesses in Revelation and their prophetic ministry.
The Biblical Description of the Two Witnesses
Revelation 11:3-12 provides the most detailed account of the two witnesses. Here are some key details about them:
- They are called God’s “two witnesses” who will prophesy for 1,260 days (3.5 years)
- They will be clothed in sackcloth
- They have power to shut up the sky so it does not rain
- They can turn water into blood and strike the earth with plagues
- If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths to devour their enemies
- They will be killed by the beast from the Abyss after they finish their testimony
- Their bodies will lie in the street of Jerusalem for 3.5 days as people celebrate their deaths
- God will resurrect them and they will ascend to heaven in a cloud
These supernatural abilities and dramatic events surrounding the two witnesses indicate they play a crucial role in God’s end times plan.
The Timing of Their Ministry
Most pretribulation scholars believe the two witnesses will minister during the first half of the 7-year tribulation period. Here are some reasons for this view:
- Their 1,260 day ministry aligns with the first half of Daniel’s 70th week
- They likely oversee the rebuilt Jewish temple before the Antichrist defiles it at the midpoint
- Their death occurs just before the midpoint when the Antichrist reveals himself
- They help lead many to faith in Christ before the Great Tribulation begins
Dr. John Whitcomb suggests the two witnesses will help arrange the covenant between Israel and the Antichrist at the start of the tribulation. Their supernatural powers protect the temple until their ministry is complete.
Theories on Their Identities
While the Bible does not explicitly name the two witnesses, there are several theories about who they may be:
Moses and Elijah
This is one of the most common views for several reasons:
- Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus at the Transfiguration
- Their miracles match those performed by Moses and Elijah in the Old Testament
- Malachi 4:5 prophesies Elijah will return before the Day of the Lord
- Both are connected to key moments in Israel’s history
Enoch and Elijah
Some suggest Enoch and Elijah because they are the only two people in the Bible who did not die but were taken directly to heaven. However, the evidence for Moses is stronger than for Enoch.
Two Unknown Prophets
The two witnesses may be previously unknown individuals empowered by God for this specific end times ministry. However, the similarities to Moses and Elijah are hard to ignore.
The Purpose of Their Ministry
The two witnesses serve several important purposes during the first half of the tribulation:
- They preach the gospel and warn of coming judgment
- They demonstrate God’s power through miracles and plagues
- They likely oversee worship at the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem
- They prepare Israel to recognize Jesus as Messiah
- They fulfill Old Testament prophecies about Elijah’s return
Their ministry results in many people coming to faith in Christ, including a remnant of believing Jews who flee to the wilderness when the Antichrist sets up the abomination of desolation.
The Impact of Their Deaths and Resurrection
The dramatic events surrounding the deaths and resurrection of the two witnesses have a powerful effect:
- The world celebrates their deaths, showing the depth of rebellion against God
- Their resurrection after 3.5 days terrifies their enemies
- A great earthquake occurs when they ascend to heaven
- Many in Jerusalem give glory to God as a result
This incredible display of God’s power likely leads to the conversion of many Jews, fulfilling Zechariah 12:10 and Romans 11:25-26.
Key Takeaways About the Two Witnesses
While we cannot be dogmatic about their exact identities, here are the key points to remember about who are the 2 witnesses in Revelation:
- They are two powerful prophets empowered by God
- They minister for 3.5 years during the first half of the tribulation
- Their ministry focuses on Israel and takes place in Jerusalem
- They are likely Moses and Elijah, but could be unknown prophets
- They play a crucial role in God’s end times plan for Israel and the world
- Their deaths, resurrection, and ascension powerfully demonstrate God’s power
As the time draws near for these prophecies to be fulfilled, we can be confident that God will reveal more details about the identity and ministry of these two important witnesses. Their appearance will be a clear sign that the return of Christ is imminent.
