Rev 11 [§168] Rev 11:1: John Measures the Third Temple and Its Altar

This podcast explains the symbolism and imagery used by the John the Revelator in Revelation 11:1, which states: "And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar." The angel is Jesus Christ, although this view is not universally accepted among all Bible scholars. This vision is similar to the visions in Ezekiel 40 and Zechariah 2. Both prophets prophesied concerning the construction of the 2nd temple of Zerubbabel, as a foreshadow and type for the construction of the Third Temple in Jerusalem that still lies in the future.The reed in Revelation 11:1 refers to a long-stemmed plant that grows in marshlands in the Mediterranean region. A reed typically symbolizes weakness or feebleness, but since it is also referred to as a rod , the image portrays strength, power, and law. John is directed to measure the Third Temple that will be built prior to the start of the Great Tribulation.The altar in this temple refers to the altar of incense located in the Holy Place, rather than the brazen altar of sacrifice located in the courtyard of the temple. The act of measuring symbolizes acceptance and ownership by God, which includes his protection of that which is measured. This protection will come in the form of the Two Witnesses who will minister among the Jews and in Jerusalem during the last 3 ½ years of the Great Tribulation before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.