I actually have been doing some studying on this subject, and came to a broader, and more spiritual view.
Without going to great lengths to quote every line in this passage, because it would take some time to do; I would like to ask whether this book of Revelations which prophecy the two witnesses, should be taken literally?
There were witnesses who were prophets of the past, yes; but is that what this chapter is telling us to expect in the present/ and or future?
Let us seek the bible for the truth.
The candlesticks mentioned represent light and truth. The word of God is truth, the New testament bearing witness of past prophets and the New Testament bearing witness of Jesus Christ. The word of God is a two edged sword.
These two witnesses will prophecy for a length of time, while the heavens are shut, and do not give rain. We are told that there will be a famine in the land (during the final days) but not of the thirst of water, but for the word of God. Jesus told us to drink from his water, which would never leave us thirsty, because it is everlasting. The absence of the TRUTH, the word of God is the drought, and the closing of heaven signifies the rain.
And from the absence of our Lord Jesus Christ, two thousand years have passed. And we, the watchers, are those faithful servants, who await their Lords return.
The holy spirit is the comforter; remember how Jesus forbade anyone from swearing against it? To be killed by fire, as coming from the mouth, is certainly the wrath of Holy spirit.
The Holy bible is one of the most published books today, however is it being read? Where do most bibles dwell; but on the table, or in the drawer. They are not thrown away, they are just there. Is this the witness that many will not suffer to be put into graves?
And the world was MERRY, and gave gifts one to another. No rules, no consequence, because there is no God! The bibles of past have been made into fables and fairy tales; technology and intelligence in the world have taken over and shadowed the innocence of truth.
And the gospel will be preached to all the world FOR A WITNESS and then the end shall come.
And when the witnessing is complete; Satan is released, and the TRUTH of the word of God is killed (heard no longer). Remember the warnings to the churches; this applies! Then will be the abomination of desolation in the holy place that signifies the immediate return of Christ! This abomination will blow out the candles of MANY. (keep your lamps burning!) Come out of her my people! God warns, MY PEOPLE. Because iniquity shall abound and the love of many shall wax cold.
Run to the mountains! (return to me, God insists). And woe unto those are with child and those who give suck in those days. These are not literal pregnant women; God is speaking of the churches, who are dead to the truth, the gospel. And we are the children/ babes whom they are nursing. Look out, here is the judgement of Babylon.
After a time (or three days) the witnesses are made to stand, and are given LIFE. Here is the patience of the saints!! This is the outpouring of the holy spirit upon the people. It is fortold that women shall have dreams, and young men and old men shall have visions. This will be a wonderful synonomous time, for it is a revival of the people.
You and I. We are the witnesses. We are the priests. The holy bible, which is preached and distributed throughout the world are two witnesses. The New testament and the Old testament. The holy spirit, which Jesus Promised is our own personal Comforter.
And together, God gave us an incredible combination.
Keep your heads up and your hearts focused my friends, we are very close.