An angel spoke this to John, “…I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy (31/2 years), clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before God. And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies… These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.” (Rev. 11:4-6) Holding back the rain and turning water to water to blood are what Moses and Elijah did and they both appeared with Jesus (Matt. 17:3) when He was transfigured. Maybe they were making plans for this event. “When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and KILL THEM.” (Rev. 11:7) Where will we (Christians) be when this happens? Well we know this, “…you know what is holding him (the beast) back, so that he may be revealed at the proper time. For the secret power of lawlessness is ALREADY at work; but THE ONE WHO NOW HOLDS IT BACK will continue to do so till HE IS TAKEN OUT OF THE WAY.” (2 Thess. 2:6-7) The Holy Spirit in God’s Church is holding him Back. The beast won’t be revealed until after the rapture.
What about the dead witnesses? “Everyone on earth will rejoice over the dead witnesses, “But after the (31/2) days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and terror struck those who saw them.” (Rev. 11:10-11)
-Bill Stockham