Revelation 10-11:4

“It was sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it my stomach was made bitter” (Rev 10:10). The bittersweet scroll, repeating the image of Ezekiel 2-3, reminded John’s readers that God’s judgment is true and faithful, yet bitter, because many refuse to accept mercy. The olive trees and lampstands (11:4) echo Zechariah 4, which promised the rebuilding of the temple. The Messiah’s coming had replaced the physical temple with something much better - union of God and His people.

“Rise and measure the temple of God” (11:1). Jerusalem’s physical temples (first and second) were destroyed, but the glorious fellowship of Christ and His people has only just begun. His kingdom will never end.