Two Witnesses -Revelation 11:1-3

Revelation 11:1-3 ESV
1 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, 2 but do not measure the court outside the temple; leave that out, for it is given over to the nations, and they will trample the holy city for forty- two months. 3 And I will grant authority to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth.”

We see the temple of God and all who worship there are in the sight and protection of the Lord. A remnant is measured and sealed. Outside is turned over to the enemies of God's city and trampled, or subjugated. The faithful in Israel hold to their God and walk in His light.
During this time, God continues to hold out witness and mercy to an unbelieving world. There will be a time however when time runs out. In effect, He pleads and warns the those of the earth one last time.
No one knows for sure the identity of the two witnesses. The Jews were looking for Elijah to announce the Messiah, only to hear Jesus tell them that John had come in the spirit of Elijah. John was seen as a light as he prepared the way for Jesus. Many believe Elijah will be one of the two witnesses at this time.


In Ezekiel we see a similar measuring of the temple. The measuring implies sovereignty and control. Events will play out according to God's purpose and design. He declares things before they happen. God measures with justice and righteousness, His judgements true.

Ezekiel 40:3-4
When he brought me there, behold, there was a man whose appearance was like bronze, with a linen cord and a measuring reed in his hand. And he was standing in the gateway. 4 And the man said to me, “Son of man, look with your eyes, and hear with your ears, and set your heart upon all that I shall show you, for you were brought here in order that I might show it to you. Declare all that you see to the house of Israel.”

Jesus speaks of the coming distress on Jerusalem that will be allowed to take place, but there is a purpose and end.

Luke 21:24
They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

Two witnesses were always needed to testify and serve to witness to the truth. Sackcloth was common to prophets as they delivered somber words from God, of judgement and mourning.