◄ Revelation 20 ►
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Satan Bound 1Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven with the key to the Abyss, holding in his hand a great chain. 2He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. 3And he threw him into the Abyss, shut it, and sealed it over him, so that he could not deceive the nations until the thousand years were complete. After that, he must be released for a brief period of time. 4Then I saw the thrones, and those seated on them had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or hands. And they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. 5The rest of the dead did not come back to life until the thousand years were complete. This is the first resurrection. 6Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection! The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years. Satan Cast into the Lake of Fire 7When the thousand years are complete, Satan will be released from his prison, 8and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth—Gog and Magog—to assemble them for battle. Their number is like the sand of the seashore. 9And they marched across the broad expanse of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. But fire came down from heavena and consumed them. 10And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, into which the beast and the false prophet had already been thrown. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. Judgment before the Great White Throne 11Then I saw a great white throne and the One seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. 12And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And books were opened, and one of them was the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. 13The sea gave up its dead, and Death and Hades gave up their dead, and each one was judged according to his deeds. 14Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire. 15And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Footnotes: 9 a BYZ and TR came down from God out of heaven Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Revelation 20 Summary Satan Bound Verses 1–3 – Satan Bound John sees an angel descend with the key to the Abyss and a great chain. The angel seizes “the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan,” locks him in the Abyss, shuts it, and seals it for a thousand years so he can no longer mislead the nations. After the thousand years, Satan must be released briefly. Verses 4–6 – Reign with Christ John next sees thrones. Those seated there—martyrs and all who refused the beast’s mark—come to life and reign with Christ for a thousand years. This is “the first resurrection.” They are called “blessed and holy”; the second death cannot touch them. They serve as priests of God and Christ during this millennial reign. Verses 7–10 – Final Rebellion When the thousand years end, Satan is released. He deceives the nations, labeled “Gog and Magog,” gathering them from earth’s four corners for war. They surround “the camp of the saints and the beloved city,” but fire falls from heaven and devours them. Satan is thrown into the lake of fire where the beast and the false prophet already burn, to be tormented forever. Verses 11–15 – Great White Throne Judgment John then sees a great white throne. Earth and heaven flee from the One seated on it. All the dead stand before Him as books are opened, along with the Book of Life. The dead are judged by what is written in the books. Death and Hades give up their dead, then are thrown into the lake of fire—“the second death.” Anyone not found in the Book of Life is cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20 is a pivotal chapter in the Book of Revelation, depicting powerful visions of apocalyptic events. This chapter presents the reader with the culmination of the cosmic struggle between good and evil and a glimpse of God's final judgment. The millennium reign of Christ, the binding of Satan, the resurrection of the dead, and the last judgment are all significant events detailed within this chapter. Historical Setting of Revelation 20 This vision follows the return of Christ (Revelation 19). Chapter 20 shows what happens after the defeat of the beast and the false prophet. It bridges the era of Christ’s physical reign on earth and the everlasting state described in chapters 21–22. The Angel, the Key, and the Chain • Keys symbolize authority (Isaiah 22:22; Matthew 16:19). Christ holds the keys of Death and Hades (Revelation 1:18) and delegates authority to this angel. • Great chains were familiar tools in the Roman world for high–value prisoners. The image underscores Satan’s total restraint. • The Abyss (Greek abyssos) appears in Luke 8:31 and Revelation 9:1—it is a spiritual prison. Its sealing recalls Daniel 6:17, where a stone and seal secured the lions’ den, guaranteeing divine intervention alone could break it. Why Satan Is Bound During Christ’s thousand–year reign, nations experience peace free from deception. Isaiah 11:9 pictures worldwide knowledge of the LORD; Micah 4:3 speaks of swords hammered into plows. Satan’s release afterward proves that apart from new hearts, people still rebel (Jeremiah 17:9). Perfect environment does not create perfect people—only new birth does (John 3:3). The Thousand Years (The Millennium) Scripture repeatedly states the period lasts “a thousand years” (six times in this chapter). Other passages echo a messianic age of righteousness: • Psalm 72:8–11—worldwide dominion of the King • Isaiah 2:2–4—nations stream to Zion • Zechariah 14:9–17—Messiah reigns from Jerusalem The length underscores a complete, ample era, far longer than any past golden age yet still finite. The First Resurrection • Daniel 12:2 speaks of a resurrection “to everlasting life.” • Jesus promises those persecuted for Him will “sit on twelve thrones” (Luke 22:30). • 1 Corinthians 6:2 reminds believers they will judge the world. This first resurrection concerns believers only, guaranteeing immunity from “the second death.” The second resurrection (verses 11–13) is for unbelievers. Martyrs and Faithful Saints John highlights beheaded martyrs, but he also includes “those who had not worshiped the beast.” Faithfulness, not only martyrdom, is honored. Their reign echoes 2 Timothy 2:12—“If we endure, we will also reign with Him.” Gog and Magog: The Final Revolt • Ezekiel 38–39 describes Gog of Magog attacking Israel; Revelation broadens the names to represent worldwide rebels. • Their number is “as the sand of the seashore,” yet a single divine fire ends the threat (compare 2 Kings 1:10; Ezekiel 39:6). • Jerusalem (“the beloved city”) remains God’s earthly center (Psalm 48:1–2). His swift victory confirms His unchallengeable rule. The Lake of Fire • Prepared “for the devil and his angels” (Matthew 25:41). • Called “the second death” (verse 14) and described as eternal (Mark 9:48). • The beast, false prophet, and Satan experience unending punishment, showing personal accountability extends beyond time. The Great White Throne • “White” signifies purity and perfect justice. • Books record deeds (Psalm 56:8; Malachi 3:16). God’s judgment is evidence–based, never arbitrary. • The Book of Life lists all redeemed (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 13:8). Salvation is by grace (Ephesians 2:8–9), but works reveal reality (James 2:18). • Death and Hades personify the grave and the place of the dead; their removal ends mortality forever (1 Corinthians 15:26). Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Roman courts kept official tablets (tabulae) of citizen deeds; John’s readers pictured real books in God’s courtroom. • Seals on tombs and prisons (e.g., Jesus’ grave, Matthew 27:66) showed imperial authority; breaking one risked death. God’s seal on the Abyss is unbreakable until His set time. • Gehenna, Jerusalem’s refuse valley, burned continually and illustrated the lake of fire to first–century audiences. Connections to Other Scriptures • Binding of Satan—Luke 10:18; Romans 16:20 (previewed victories) • Reigning with Christ—Revelation 5:10; 2 Peter 1:11 • Universal judgment—Ecclesiastes 12:14; Hebrews 9:27 • New heavens and earth promised—Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13 (lead into Revelation 21) Practical Takeaways • God keeps records; every act matters. Live transparently before Him. • Resurrection life is real and bodily. Invest in what lasts beyond the grave. • Evil is restrained now and will be fully removed then. Hope in God’s future puts present struggles in perspective. • Final judgment is certain. Share the good news so names may be written in the Book of Life. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 Discusses the return of Christ and the resurrection of believers, complementing the themes of Revelation 20. Matthew 25:31-46 The parable of the sheep and the goats parallels the final judgment scene in Revelation 20. 2 Peter 3:8-13 Offers insight into the Day of the Lord and the new heavens and new earth, connecting with the themes of final judgment and renewal. Teaching Points The Binding of Satan Revelation 20:1-3 describes an angel binding Satan for a thousand years, preventing him from deceiving the nations. This symbolizes a period of peace and righteousness under Christ's reign. The Millennial Reign Verses 4-6 introduce the concept of the thousand-year reign of Christ, where those who have been faithful will reign with Him. This period is often referred to as the Millennium. The Final Rebellion After the Millennium, Satan is released for a short time to deceive the nations once more, leading to a final rebellion (verses 7-9). The Great White Throne Judgment Verses 11-15 describe the final judgment, where the dead are judged according to their deeds, and anyone not found in the Book of Life is cast into the lake of fire. The Second Death The chapter concludes with the concept of the second death, which is eternal separation from God for those not in the Book of Life. Practical Applications Live with Eternal Perspective Understanding the finality of God's judgment should encourage us to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and evangelism. Hope in Christ's Reign The promise of Christ's millennial reign offers hope and assurance that righteousness will ultimately prevail. Be Vigilant Against Deception The temporary release of Satan serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against deception and to stand firm in our faith. Assurance of Salvation Reflect on the assurance of salvation through faith in Christ, ensuring our names are written in the Book of Life. People 1. Angel An unnamed angel is described as coming down from heaven with the key to the Abyss and a great chain in his hand. This angel is tasked with binding Satan for a thousand years. The Greek word for angel, "ἄγγελος" (angelos), means "messenger." 2. Satan Referred to as the dragon, the ancient serpent, the devil, and Satan, he is bound by the angel and thrown into the Abyss for a thousand years to prevent him from deceiving the nations. The name "Satan" comes from the Hebrew "שָׂטָן" (satan), meaning "adversary" or "accuser." 3. Those who had been given authority to judge These are not specifically named but are described as sitting on thrones and given the authority to judge. This group is often interpreted as the saints or the apostles, based on other scriptural references. 4. Souls of those beheaded for their testimony of Jesus and the word of God These individuals are described as having not worshiped the beast or its image and not received its mark. They are resurrected and reign with Christ for a thousand years. The Greek word for "testimony" is "μαρτυρία" (martyria), which can also mean "witness." 5. Christ Jesus Christ is implied as reigning with the resurrected saints during the thousand-year period. He is central to the events of Revelation and is the one who ultimately defeats Satan. 6. Gog and Magog These names are used to describe the nations that Satan deceives after being released from his prison. They gather for battle against the saints and the beloved city. The names "Gog" and "Magog" have roots in the Hebrew Bible, often associated with end-times prophecy. 7. The Dead All the dead, great and small, stand before the throne for the final judgment. This includes those whose names are not found in the Book of Life, who are thrown into the lake of fire. 8. The One seated on the great white throne This figure is not explicitly named in Revelation 20, but is traditionally understood to be God, who judges the dead. The Greek word for "throne" is "θρόνος" (thronos), indicating a seat of authority. Places 1. The Abyss Description: The Abyss is a place where Satan is bound for a thousand years. It is often understood as a deep, bottomless pit or a prison for demonic forces. The Greek term used here is "ἄβυσσος" (abyssos), which conveys the idea of an immeasurable depth or a place of confinement for evil spirits. Scripture: "Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven with the key to the Abyss, holding in his hand a great chain." (Revelation 20:1) 2. The Earth Description: The Earth is the setting for the millennial reign of Christ and the final judgment. It is where the nations are gathered for the battle and where the dead are judged. Scripture: "And they came up across the broad expanse of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city." (Revelation 20:9) 3. The Beloved City Description: The Beloved City is often interpreted as Jerusalem, representing the dwelling place of God's people. It is the target of Satan's final assault after his release from the Abyss. Scripture: "And they came up across the broad expanse of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city." (Revelation 20:9) 4. The Lake of Fire Description: The Lake of Fire is the final place of punishment for the devil, the beast, the false prophet, and all whose names are not found in the Book of Life. It is described as a place of eternal torment. The Greek term "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (limnē tou pyros) is used, emphasizing the fiery nature of this place. Scripture: "And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet are, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever." (Revelation 20:10) 5. The Great White Throne Description: The Great White Throne is the place of final judgment, where God sits to judge the dead according to their deeds. It symbolizes purity, authority, and the finality of God's judgment. Scripture: "Then I saw a great white throne and the One seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them." (Revelation 20:11) Events 1. The Binding of Satan Revelation 20:1-3 describes an angel descending from heaven with the key to the Abyss and a great chain. The angel seizes the dragon, identified as the devil or Satan, and binds him for a thousand years. The Greek term "ἄβυσσος" (abyssos) refers to a bottomless pit or a deep chasm, symbolizing a place of confinement. 2. The Thousand-Year Reign In Revelation 20:4-6, those who had been martyred for their testimony of Jesus and had not worshiped the beast or its image are resurrected to reign with Christ for a thousand years. This period is often referred to as the "Millennium." The Greek word "χίλιοι" (chilioi) means "thousand," indicating the duration of this reign. 3. The Release of Satan Revelation 20:7-8 states that after the thousand years, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle. The names "Gog" and "Magog" have roots in Old Testament prophecy, particularly in Ezekiel 38-39, symbolizing forces opposed to God. 4. The Final Battle In Revelation 20:9, the deceived nations surround the camp of God's people and the beloved city. However, fire comes down from heaven and devours them, signifying God's ultimate victory over evil. 5. The Judgment of Satan Revelation 20:10 describes the devil being thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet are also, to be tormented day and night forever and ever. The Greek term "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (limnē tou pyros) refers to the lake of fire, a place of eternal punishment. 6. The Great White Throne Judgment Revelation 20:11-15 depicts a great white throne and the One seated on it. The dead, great and small, stand before the throne, and books are opened, including the book of life. The dead are judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. The Greek word "βιβλία" (biblia) means "books," indicating records of deeds. 7. The Second Death Finally, Revelation 20:14-15 explains that death and Hades are thrown into the lake of fire, which is the second death. Anyone whose name is not found written in the book of life is also thrown into the lake of fire. The term "δεύτερος θάνατος" (deuteros thanatos) means "second death," signifying eternal separation from God. Lessons from Revelation 20 1. The Binding of Satan: A Temporary Restraint In Revelation 20:1-3, we see an angel binding Satan for a thousand years, casting him into the abyss. This act reminds us of God's ultimate authority over evil. While Satan's influence is temporarily restrained, it highlights the power of God to protect His people. "He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years" (Revelation 20:2). This serves as a reminder that no matter how chaotic the world may seem, God is in control and His plans will prevail. 2. The Reign of the Saints: A Promise of Reward The faithful are promised a reign with Christ for a thousand years, as seen in Revelation 20:4. This reign is a reward for those who have remained steadfast in their faith. "They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years" (Revelation 20:4). This encourages us to persevere in our faith, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain and that a glorious future awaits those who are faithful. 3. The First Resurrection: A Celebration of Life Revelation 20:5-6 speaks of the first resurrection, a blessing for those who have remained true to Christ. "Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection" (Revelation 20:6). This resurrection is a celebration of life and victory over death, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on the promises of God rather than the temporary struggles of this world. 4. The Final Defeat of Satan: A Victory Assured In Revelation 20:7-10, Satan is released for a short time but ultimately defeated and cast into the lake of fire. "And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur" (Revelation 20:10). This assures us that evil will not have the final word. God's victory is certain, and we can live confidently, knowing that justice will be served and righteousness will prevail. 5. The Great White Throne Judgment: A Call to Accountability Revelation 20:11-12 describes the great white throne judgment, where everyone is judged according to their deeds. "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened" (Revelation 20:12). This serves as a sobering reminder of our accountability before God. It encourages us to live righteously and to share the gospel, knowing that every action and decision matters in the light of eternity. 6. The Book of Life: A Record of Grace The Book of Life is mentioned in Revelation 20:12 and 20:15, highlighting the importance of having our names written in it. "And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:15). This underscores the grace of God in offering salvation through Jesus Christ. It is a call to ensure our relationship with Him is genuine and to share this hope with others. 7. The Second Death: A Warning of Consequence Revelation 20:14-15 speaks of the second death, which is the lake of fire. "Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death" (Revelation 20:14). This serves as a stark warning of the consequences of rejecting God's offer of salvation. It compels us to take our spiritual lives seriously and to reach out to those who have yet to accept Christ. 8. The End of Death: A Promise of Eternal Life The casting of death into the lake of fire signifies the end of death itself. "Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:14). This is a powerful promise of eternal life for believers, where death will no longer have any hold over us. It fills us with hope and joy, knowing that we will one day experience life in its fullest, free from pain and sorrow. 9. The Justice of God: A Reflection of His Character Throughout Revelation 20, we see the justice of God in action. His judgments are fair and righteous, reflecting His holy character. This chapter reassures us that God is just and that He will right every wrong. It encourages us to trust in His timing and to rest in the knowledge that His justice will ultimately prevail. 10. The Urgency of the Gospel: A Mission to Fulfill Revelation 20 emphasizes the urgency of sharing the gospel. With the reality of judgment and the hope of eternal life, we are called to be active in our mission to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. This chapter inspires us to live with purpose, knowing that our efforts can have an eternal impact on the lives of others. Let us be bold in our witness, sharing the love and truth of Christ with a world in need. Topics 1. The Binding of Satan Revelation 20:1-3 describes an angel descending from heaven with the key to the Abyss and a great chain. Satan is seized, bound for a thousand years, and thrown into the Abyss to prevent him from deceiving the nations. The Greek term "ἄβυσσος" (abyssos) refers to a bottomless pit or a deep chasm, symbolizing a place of confinement. 2. The Thousand-Year Reign In verses 4-6, John sees thrones and those who are given authority to judge. The souls of those who were martyred for their testimony of Jesus and who did not worship the beast reign with Christ for a thousand years. This period is often referred to as the "Millennium." The Greek word "χίλια" (chilia) means "thousand," indicating a specific duration of time. 3. The Release and Final Defeat of Satan Verses 7-10 describe Satan's release after the thousand years, his deception of the nations, and the gathering of Gog and Magog for battle. However, fire from heaven devours them, and Satan is thrown into the lake of fire, where the beast and the false prophet are. The term "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (limnē tou pyros) translates to "lake of fire," symbolizing eternal punishment. 4. The Great White Throne Judgment Revelation 20:11-15 details the final judgment before a great white throne. The dead are judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. The "βιβλία" (biblia) refers to the books, while the "βιβλίον τῆς ζωῆς" (biblion tēs zōēs) is the "book of life." Those not found in the book of life are cast into the lake of fire, which is the second death. Themes 1. The Binding of Satan Revelation 20:1-3 describes an angel descending from heaven with the key to the Abyss and a great chain, seizing the dragon, who is identified as the devil and Satan, and binding him for a thousand years. The Greek term "ἄβυσσος" (abyssos) refers to a bottomless pit or a place of imprisonment for evil spirits, emphasizing the complete restraint placed on Satan during this period. 2. The Millennial Reign Verses 4-6 discuss the reign of Christ and His saints for a thousand years. This period, often referred to as the Millennium, is characterized by peace and righteousness. The Greek word "χίλια" (chilia) means a thousand, indicating a literal or symbolic period of time where Christ's authority is fully realized on earth. 3. The First Resurrection The passage mentions the "first resurrection" in verse 5, where those who have been martyred for their testimony of Jesus and for the word of God come to life and reign with Christ. This resurrection is described as a blessing and holy, indicating a special honor for those who have remained faithful. 4. The Final Defeat of Satan In verses 7-10, after the thousand years, Satan is released from his prison and deceives the nations once more. However, he is ultimately defeated and thrown into the lake of fire. The Greek term "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (limnē tou pyros) signifies a place of eternal punishment, underscoring the finality of Satan's defeat. 5. The Great White Throne Judgment Verses 11-15 describe the final judgment before the great white throne. The dead are judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books, and anyone not found in the Book of Life is cast into the lake of fire. The Greek word "βιβλία" (biblia) refers to the books that record deeds, while "βιβλίον τῆς ζωῆς" (biblion tēs zōēs) is the Book of Life, highlighting the importance of one's eternal destiny. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Sovereignty Praise God for His ultimate control over history and His plan for redemption. Strength to Resist Deception Pray for discernment and strength to resist the deceptions of the enemy. Hope and Assurance Ask for a deepened sense of hope and assurance in Christ's promises and His coming reign. Burden for the Lost Pray for a heart burdened for those who do not yet know Christ, that they may come to salvation before the final judgment. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Revelation 20:1–3) How can Satan be literally bound for a thousand years and then released if he is not a physical being? 2. (Revelation 20:3) Why would God allow Satan’s release after the millennium instead of ending evil once and for all? 3. (Revelation 20:4–5) Is the concept of physical resurrection from the dead scientifically plausible, and why is it not observed today? 4. (Revelation 20:7–8) Who are Gog and Magog historically, and why is there no clear archeological evidence of such an end-times battle? 5. (Revelation 20:11–15) If God is omniscient, why must there be a separate judgment scene if every person’s fate is already known? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the concept of the Millennium (thousand-year reign) influence your perspective on the eternal nature of God’s plan? 2. In what ways does the binding and release of Satan reflect the ongoing struggle between good and evil in our world today? 3. How does the promise of the First Resurrection offer hope to those facing persecution or hardship for their faith? 4. Reflect on the concept of the Great White Throne Judgment. How does it challenge you to live your life differently? 5. How does the notion of divine judgment balance with your understanding of God’s love and mercy? 6. In our modern society, how can we guard ourselves against Satan's deceptions as depicted in verses 7-10? 7. How does understanding the fate of Satan, the Beast, and the False Prophet provide comfort in times of spiritual warfare? 8. How does the vision of the resurrection and judgment alter your perspective on death? 9. What steps can you take to ensure your name is written in the Book of Life? 10. How should the inevitability of God's judgment influence your interactions and relationships with others? 11. How does the vision of the lake of fire change your understanding of eternal separation from God? 12. What does the distinction between the first and second resurrections reveal about God’s plan for believers versus non-believers? 13. How can the hope of reigning with Christ inspire us to live righteously and courageously in the face of adversity? 14. What measures can we take to avoid falling into deception when Satan is loosed in our lives or our society? 15. How can Revelation 20 inspire you to share the Gospel with others more fervently? 16. In what ways do you see the themes from Revelation 20 reflected in our world today? 17. What actions can you take in your daily life to resist the devil's deception? 18. How does Revelation 20 challenge your views on eternal punishment and accountability? 19. If God were to judge you today based on the Book of Life, what would you want Him to see? 20. How does the ultimate defeat of evil in Revelation 20 give you hope in today's turbulent world? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions