The reed like a rod in Revelation 11:1 has a different function than the rod of iron. It is more of an inworking process of God’s chosen. This rod is used to measure sacred things that reside in the deep recesses of they who are holy. "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. Revelation 11:1.

This rod applies to the temple, the altar, and they who worship therein, and it is a reed like unto a rod. It is not of iron. It is not of judgment that breaks things to pieces. But rather, this rod is used as a standard for God’s chosen. It is a rod used to measure those who have entered into the holy and the most holy place.

These two witnesses who have been measured are the priests of God, but there is more. The word and spirit of each priest must be measured as well, bringing transformation, transfiguration, and perfect union between their word and spirit. Only then will this royal priesthood flow as one, even as a rod like unto Moses (the word), and Aaron (the spirit) united as one.

Neither of these two witnesses are manifested apart from the other, and it has been said, and I believe it to be true: if the word of the Law is ministered without the Spirit, it can lead to legalism, and if you have the Spirit without the Word, it can lead to fanaticism. If not fanaticism, I know such people can certainly be carried away by anything or any spirit that makes them feel good, and this is not good. The outer court is filled with legalism and free-roaming spirits, but the twain shall never meet and become one in the priests of God. Neither of the two — legalism nor free-roaming, feel-good religion — will be a part of the two witnesses; for they have been measured by the reed like unto a rod, the standard of all holiness.