Revelation 20:14

Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death--the lake of fire.

Study Bible

Then
The word "then" serves as a chronological marker, indicating a sequence of events in the apocalyptic vision. In the Greek, "τότε" (tote) is used, which often signifies a transition to a significant event. This word connects the preceding judgments and the finality of God's plan, emphasizing the culmination of divine justice.

Death and Hades
In the Greek, "θάνατος" (thanatos) and "ᾅδης" (hades) are personified entities representing the state of physical death and the abode of the dead, respectively. Historically, Hades is understood as the realm of the dead, akin to Sheol in Hebrew thought. Theologically, this phrase signifies the ultimate defeat of death itself, as prophesied in 1 Corinthians 15:26, "The last enemy to be destroyed is death."

were thrown
The Greek verb "ἐβλήθησαν" (eblēthēsan) is in the aorist passive tense, indicating a completed action performed by an external force, namely God. This action underscores the sovereignty and authority of God in executing final judgment, emphasizing that death and Hades have no power to resist His will.

into the lake of fire
The "lake of fire" is a vivid image of eternal judgment and separation from God. The Greek "λίμνη τοῦ πυρός" (limnē tou pyros) conveys a place of perpetual punishment. This imagery is consistent with Jewish apocalyptic literature, where fire often symbolizes divine wrath and purification. Theologically, it represents the final abode of all that opposes God, including Satan, his followers, and all forms of evil.

This is the second death
The phrase "second death" is a key eschatological concept, contrasting with the first death, which is physical. The Greek "ὁ δεύτερος θάνατος" (ho deuteros thanatos) refers to eternal separation from God. This concept is rooted in the understanding that while believers may experience physical death, they are spared from the second death through faith in Christ, as promised in Revelation 2:11.

the lake of fire
Reiterating the finality and severity of God's judgment, the repetition of "the lake of fire" serves to emphasize its significance. It is the ultimate destination for all that is unredeemed, highlighting the stark contrast between the fate of the righteous and the wicked. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of rejecting God's grace and the eternal nature of His justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Death
Represents the end of physical life and the separation of the soul from the body. In this context, it symbolizes the ultimate defeat of mortality.

2. Hades
Often understood as the realm of the dead or the grave. In Greek, "Hades" refers to the unseen world where the dead reside. Here, it is depicted as a temporary holding place for souls before the final judgment.

3. Lake of Fire
A symbol of eternal judgment and separation from God. It represents the final destination for all that is opposed to God, including Death and Hades.

4. Second Death
This term refers to eternal separation from God, distinct from physical death. It is the ultimate consequence of sin for those not found in the Book of Life.

5. Judgment
The event where God executes His final justice, determining the eternal fate of every soul.

Teaching Points

The Finality of Judgment
The casting of Death and Hades into the lake of fire signifies the end of their power. Believers can find hope in the assurance that death will be no more.

The Reality of Eternal Consequences
The concept of the second death serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of rejecting God. It calls for a life aligned with His will.

Victory Through Christ
The defeat of death is made possible through Jesus' resurrection. Believers are encouraged to live in the victory and hope that Christ provides.

Urgency of the Gospel
Understanding the reality of the second death should motivate believers to share the gospel, emphasizing the urgency of salvation.

Assurance of Salvation
For those in Christ, the second death holds no power. This assurance should lead to a life of peace and purpose, rooted in the promises of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of Death and Hades being thrown into the lake of fire impact your understanding of God's final judgment?

2. In what ways does the concept of the second death influence your perspective on life and eternity?

3. How can the assurance of victory over death through Christ change the way you approach daily challenges and fears?

4. What practical steps can you take to share the urgency of the gospel with others, in light of the eternal consequences described in Revelation 20:14?

5. How do the promises found in Revelation 21 provide hope and encouragement in contrast to the judgment described in Revelation 20:14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 15
Discusses the victory over death through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the resurrection and the ultimate defeat of death.

Matthew 25
Describes the final judgment and separation of the righteous from the unrighteous, paralleling the imagery of eternal consequences.

Daniel 12
Speaks of a resurrection to everlasting life or shame, highlighting the dual outcomes of the final judgment.

Revelation 21
Follows with the promise of a new heaven and new earth, where death and suffering are no more, contrasting the fate of those in the lake of fire.