Meaning of Revelation 11:2

Revelation 11:2 describes a symbolic prophecy within the apocalyptic visions of John, concerning a period of Gentile dominance over Jerusalem and its sacred precincts. The command to "exclude the outer court" and not measure it signifies that this specific area, representing a place of public access and interaction with the sacred, is surrendered to non-Jewish control. This period of trampling lasts for "42 months," a duration also found elsewhere in Revelation and Daniel, representing a prophesied period of tribulation and oppression. The holy city, Jerusalem, is the focal point of this subjugation, highlighting the spiritual and political significance of this location in God's plan.

Context and Background

This verse is embedded within the vision of the two witnesses (Revelation 11:1-14), who prophesy in Jerusalem for 1,260 days (also 42 months). The measurement of the temple in verse 1 refers to the inner sanctuary, which is protected and measured by God, symbolizing His divine sovereignty and the remnant that belongs to Him. In contrast, the outer court, being "given to the Gentiles," represents the part of the city and its religious functions that fall under profane or hostile influence. Historically, Jerusalem has experienced periods of foreign occupation and desecration, making this prophecy resonate with recurring themes of divine judgment and eventual restoration. The 42 months, equivalent to 3.5 years or 1,260 days, is a recurring motif in biblical prophecy, often denoting a limited but intense period of suffering and trial.

Key Themes and Messages

The central themes are divine sovereignty, Gentile oppression, and limited duration of tribulation. Despite the apparent triumph of the Gentiles, God's ultimate control is emphasized by His selective measurement of the inner sanctuary. The trampling of the holy city underscores the profound sacrilege and suffering that will occur during this time. The fixed duration of 42 months offers a crucial message of hope, indicating that this period of distress is not eternal but has a divinely appointed end.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, the "outer court" can be understood as the outward expressions of faith or religious practice that are susceptible to worldly corruption or influence. The "Gentiles" represent forces antagonistic to God's purposes, whether they be pagan empires, secular ideologies, or internal apostasy. The "trampling" signifies the desecration of sacred things and the persecution of God's people. This verse calls believers to discern between what is divinely protected and what is vulnerable to worldly pressures, urging faithfulness and perseverance through periods of spiritual conflict and external opposition. It reminds believers that even in times of great trial, God's purposes are not thwarted, and His protection extends to His faithful remnant.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse connects to the Old Testament prophecies regarding the exile and subsequent return of Israel, particularly the prophecies of Daniel concerning the oppression of Jerusalem and the temple by foreign powers. It also foreshadows the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly opposition, a theme that runs through the entire biblical narrative from Genesis to Revelation. The concept of a limited period of suffering before divine intervention and restoration is a recurring pattern in salvation history.

Analogies

One analogy for the exclusion and measurement of the outer court is a besieged city where the inner citadel is fortified and defended by the king, while the outer walls and surrounding districts are overrun by the enemy. Another analogy could be a spiritual battle where the innermost sanctuary of a believer's heart is protected by God's Spirit, while their outward actions or public life may be subjected to worldly temptations and pressures. The 42 months can be likened to a severe fever that grips a patient for a specific, agonizing period before the body's natural defenses, aided by treatment, overcome the illness.

Relation to Other Verses

Revelation 11:2 is closely linked to Revelation 11:15 which speaks of God's kingdom being established, and Revelation 11:18 where the nations are judged. It also echoes the prophecy in Daniel 7:25 and Daniel 12:7 concerning a time, times, and half a time (equivalent to 42 months) of persecution. Furthermore, Luke 21:24 speaks of Jerusalem being trampled by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled, a concept that resonates with the prophecy here. The promise of God's protection for His people finds parallels in verses like Psalm 91.