The Two Witnesses

111 I was given a reed like a measuring rod and was told, "Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, with its worshipers.

Other Translations of Revelation 11:1

King James Version

The Two Witnesses

111 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, and them that worship therein.

English Standard Version

The Two Witnesses

111 Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff, and I was told, "Rise and measure the temple of God and the altar and those who worship there,

The Message

The Two Witnesses

111 I was given a stick for a measuring rod and told, "Get up and measure God's Temple and Altar and everyone worshiping in it.

New King James Version

The Two Witnesses

111 Then I was given a reed like a measuring rod. And the angel stood, saying, "Rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there.

New Living Translation

The Two Witnesses

111 Then I was given a measuring stick, and I was told, "Go and measure the Temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Revelation 11:1

Commentary on Revelation 11:1-2

(Read Revelation 11:1-2)

This prophetical passage about measuring the temple seems to refer to Ezekiel's vision. The design of this measuring seems to be the preservation of the church in times of public danger; or for its trial, or for its reformation. The worshippers must be measured; whether they make God's glory their end, and his word their rule, in all their acts of worship. Those in the outer court, worship in a false manner, or with dissembling hearts, and will be found among his enemies. God will have a temple and an altar in the world, till the end of time. He looks strictly to his temple. The holy city, the visible church, is trodden under foot; is filled with idolaters, infidels, and hypocrites. But the desolations of the church are limited, and she shall be delivered out of all her troubles.