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.