Summary
Revelation 20:1–6 – Satan bound and the saints reign
What happens: An angel binds Satan for a thousand years so he cannot deceive the nations. Thrones appear, and faithful witnesses live and reign with Christ; this is the first resurrection. The rest of the dead do not live until the thousand years are ended.
What it means: God limits the devil and honors faithful endurance. Christ shares His reign with His people, showing covenant promise and mercy. Holiness and loyalty to Jesus are not wasted.
Revelation 20:7–10 – Final rebellion and Satan’s doom
What happens: After the thousand years, Satan is released and gathers Gog and Magog to surround the saints. Fire comes from heaven and consumes them. The devil is thrown into the lake of fire forever.
What it means: God permits a final exposure of evil’s nature, then ends it. His victory is total and eternal. Justice and holiness stand forever.
Revelation 20:11–15 – The great white throne
What happens: A great white throne appears; earth and sky flee. The dead are judged according to their works from the books. Anyone not found in the book of life is thrown into the lake of fire, the second death.
What it means: Final judgment is personal, just, and unavoidable. Salvation rests in God’s grace, yet works reveal the truth of faith. God’s justice defends His holiness and sets the world right.
Application
- Live as one who will be judged; pursue holy obedience by grace.
- Hold fast to Christ, whose reign is sure and shared with His people.
- Reject the devil’s lies; resist to the end with hope.
