Revelation 11:10

And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them. Whenever the righteous are afflicted, the unjust rejoice and feast, just as, when the wicked prosper, the poor are inflamed.

They were glad to be rid of these witnesses, who by their doctrine and example had teased, terrified, and tormented the consciences of their enemies; these spiritual weapons cut wicked men to the heart, and fill them with the greatest rage and malice against the faithful. The resurrection of these witnesses, and the consequences thereof.

And they that dwell upon the earth - Perhaps this expression may peculiarly denote earthly-minded men. Shall make merry - As did the Philistines over Samson. And send gifts to one another - Both Turks, and Jews, and heathens, and false Christians.

And they that dwell upon the earth,.... Out of which the beast arose, and over which he reigns, even the inhabitants of the Roman empire, often in this book called the earth, the followers of antichrist, men that mind nothing but earth, and earthly things: shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; as is usual with persons, and was with the Jews, to do in times of public rejoicing; see Est 9:

Shall send gifts - This was a custom in days of public rejoicing. They sent gifts to each other, and gave portions to the poor. See Est 9:19, Est 9:22.

Fanaticism shall lead Antichrist's followers to exult in having at last seemingly silenced in death their Christian rebukers. Like her Lord, the Church will have her dark passion week followed by the bright resurrection morn.

And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them - Those dwelling in the land would rejoice over their fall and ruin. This cannot, of course, mean all who inhabit the globe; but, according to the usage in Scripture, those who dwell in the country where this would occur. Compare the notes on Luk 2:1. We now affix to the word “earth” an idea which was not necessarily implied in the Hebrew word ארץ ‛erets, (compare Exo 3:8; Exo 13:5; Deu 19:2, Deu 19:10; Deu 28:12; Neh 9:22; Psa 37:9, Psa 37:11, Psa 37:22, Psa 37:29; Psa 66:4; Pro 2:21; Pro 10:30; Joe 1:2); or the Greek word γῆ gē, compare Mat 2:6, Mat 2:20-21; Mat 14:15; Act 7:7, Act 7:11, Act 7:36, Act 7:40; Act 13:17. Our word “land,” as now commonly understood, would better express the idea intended to be conveyed here; and thus understood, the meaning is, that the dwellers in the country where these things would happen would thus rejoice. The meaning is, that while alive they would, by their faithful testimony against existing errors, excite so much hatred against themselves, and would be so great an annoyance to the governing powers, that there would be general exultation when the voice of their testimony should be silenced. This, too, has been so common in the world that there would be no difficulty in applying the language used here, or in finding events which it would appropriately deseribe. And make merry - Be glad. See the notes on Luk 12:19; Luk 15:23. The Greek word does not necessarily denote the lighthearted mirth expressed by our word merriment, but rather joy or happiness in general. The meaning is, that they would be filled with joy at such an event. And shall send gifts one to another - As expressive of their joy. […]