Revelation 20: The Last Battle
FINALITY IS SOMETHING we crave and which God graciously provides. A relationship needs to be broken, an assignment needs to be completed, an extended friendship needs to become a committed marriage—all require closure. The previous study explored our inexpressible hope to be reunited with our Lord. This chapter enlarges our appreciation of God's master plan: his settled decision to be with us forever and to establish his glorious rule over everything.
Warming Up to God
What do you look forward to most about Christ's return?
Read Revelation 20. »
Discovering the Word
- This chapter, out of the whole book, has sparked the greatest controversy. Why is Satan, previously thrown to earth (12:9), now bound (20:1-3)?
- The thousand-year reign of Christ (vv. 4-6) has been interpreted as referring to: (a) a period of righteousness and peace on earth before Christ's return; (b) Christ's reign in heaven between his First and Second Coming; (c) Christ's reign on earth after his return. Which view (if any) do you think best fits this passage and the book of Revelation?
- What is the nature and outcome of Satan's last fling (vv. 7-10)?
- Who will be judged at the great-white-throne judgment (vv. 11-15)?
- What does it say about God's character that he should keep a record of each person's deeds?
Applying the Word
- How can verses 4-6 help us to see life and death in proper perspective?
- How should the ultimate judgment of evil and the reward of faithfulness affect the way we live now?
Responding in Prayer
Pray that you will be made faithful in every way.
For Further Study
Exploring the New Testament, Volume 2: A Guide to the Letters & Revelation by I. Howard Marshall, Stephen Travis and Ian Paul