These verses present a kaleidoscope of Biblical images portraying a period of intense struggle for the church, which is God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16, Ephesians 2:19-22). In his vision, Jesus told John to measure the temple, and those who worshipped there, thereby declaring God's ownership of it. The picture is of Herod's temple, although that was destroyed in AD70, which had an outer court where those outside God's family might come and desire to become part of God's people. But in this vision, that privilege became an opportunity for Christ-haters to invade the rest of the temple, trampling over God's people.

The numbers are symbolic and connect with the prophecies in Daniel. 42 months is 1260 days, which is three and a half years ('a time, times and half a time' in Daniel 7:25, 12:7; Revelation 12:14) – an intense period of suffering for the church (possibly the great tribulation of Revelation 7:14), half of the seven years of troubles during which God's plagues will disturb the self-centred arrogance of the rebellious world (Revelation 8:6-9:19). The significance is that although the church will be severely tested, God will set a limit on its suffering. And during that time, He knows who belongs to Him, and He cares for them as He challenges them to turn from sin (2 Timothy 2:19).

But even when the church is under intense pressure, God will raise up people who are lights in a dark world (Luke 8:15). The lampstands in Revelation 1:20 are churches. Their purpose is to illuminate the world with truth, pointing to Jesus as the Light of the world (John 8:12, Matthew 5:14). God's people, who trust in His mercy, are described as olive trees (Psalm 52:8; Jeremiah 11:16), producing oil for nourishment, health and to burn in lamps. Such people will persist in living for Christ and proclaiming His unique salvation, but it will be hard for them. Nevertheless the Lord will protect them. Verse 6 refers to Elijah and Moses. Like Elijah, their prayers will be effective (James 5:17-18); like Moses they will have the courage to explain that the plagues are from God's hand (Exodus 4:21) – warnings of greater judgement to come.

Whatever may be the future fulfilment of this part of Revelation, it provides a daily encouragement to people who love Jesus to witness to His grace in a dark and turbulent world. The world will often try to silence believers who speak up for Christ. The darkness will keep on attempting to extinguish the flame of faith, which becomes a beacon of truth in a community. But the Lord does not forget any of His people. He has measured His church and will preserve a witness to His Name. Suffering may come, but it is limited. Anti-Christs will come, trying to destroy the vibrant faith of the church and ridiculing it. But God will give faith and courage to His people so that they will proclaim the truth, even in times of opposition, to be the true prophetic voice of faith. So, trust Him to give you that faith; step out with His courage to live as a beacon-light for Jesus.