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Revelation 11:1
ESV 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,
NIV 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.
NASB Then there was given to me a measuring rod like a staff; and someone said, 'Get up and measure the temple of God and the altar, and those who worship in it.
CSB Then I was given a measuring reed like a rod, with these words: "Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count those who worship there.
NLT 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.
KJV 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.

What does Revelation 11:1 mean?

This verse tells how John received a measuring rod and a command to measure God's temple, the altar, and the worshipers. This temple is not in heaven, because the following verse says it will be occupied by the Gentiles. Obviously, the Gentiles cannot take over the temple in heaven.

The temple mentioned in verse 1 appears to be one rebuilt after the rapture. Apparently, during a period of peace at the beginning of the tribulation, the Jews will construct the temple and resume sacrifices on the altar. First Thessalonians 5:3 implies that some level of earthly peace is present when the rapture occurs, and Revelation 6:4 describes the rider on a red horse as taking peace from the earth after the rapture. When the temple is rebuilt, Jews will assemble there for worship, perhaps anticipating the Messiah's arrival. Zechariah 1:16 predicts, "Therefore, thus says the LORD, I have returned to Jerusalem with mercy; my house shall be built in it, declares the LORD of hosts, and the measuring line shall be stretched out over Jerusalem."

In Scripture, measurement is often assigned the symbolic meaning of ownership. God's command to measure these items implies His right to do so.
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