Revelation 11:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Revelation 11:10
10 And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.
Chapter Context
Revelation 11 is a apocalyptic vision chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, grace, discipleship. Written during the end of the first century CE (c. 95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Emperor worship intensified under Domitian, pressuring Christians to compromise their exclusive loyalty to Christ.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Revelation and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Revelation 11:10
10 And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.
Analysis
The earth-dwellers' rejoicing and gift-giving parodies proper celebration, revealing their depravity. The testimony that 'tormented them' shows truth's convicting power—the gospel either draws or drives away. Their joy at silenced witnesses demonstrates hardened hearts celebrating suppression of conscience. Reformed theology affirms total depravity—unregenerate hearts love darkness and hate light (John 3:19-20). The gift-giving suggests celebration of perceived liberation from moral constraint. This reveals sin's enslaving power—rejoicing in rebellion rather than repenting at warning.
Historical Context
Ancient cultures exchanged gifts during festivals celebrating military victories or religious holidays. This imagery depicts worldwide celebration treating the witnesses' deaths as victory over threatening truth. The description parallels modern cultural celebration when Christian moral witness is suppressed or marginalized—revealing the natural heart's enmity against God.
Reflection
- How does the world's celebration at silenced truth reveal the depth of human rebellion against God?
- In what ways might you be tempted to celebrate when conviction is silenced rather than heeded?
Word Studies
- Prophet: προφήτης (Prophētēs) G4396 - Prophet
Cross-References
- Prophecy: 1 Kings 22:8
- Parallel theme: Revelation 3:10, 1 Kings 18:17, Micah 7:8, Matthew 10:22, John 7:7, Acts 5:33