Revelation 20:1-6 - A thousand years reign

This passage’s six verses present us with some puzzling realities that need answers. Why God did not just finish Satan off together with the beast and the false prophet by throwing him together with them into the lake of fire? Why did He had Satan bound for only a thousand years and be released again to create havoc? What is the meaning of the two resurrections?

We must acknowledge that the evil of every fallen man is real and no matter what, it will always show its ugly features. That account for why the death of the Lamb is necessary to take away their sin. Now the binding of the dragon, that ancient serpent, the devil or Satan, in the abyss for a thousand years duration will prove this reality. Even in his absence, man will continue to show his fallen features. And then Satan’s release is to allow him to do his worst and exhaust his whole repertoire of accusations. And when he is finally dealt with, it would be said that none of his trickeries was left undealt with. Every accusation and deception that he ever used and could use was totally dealt with by God.

What about the two resurrections? The first resurrection of the martyrs and those who did not worship the beast or bear the mark of the beast on their foreheads or hands were given thrones to sit and judge with Christ. Although it is specified as 1,000 years, it is probably just a symbol not to be taken literally. Perhaps this is by way of saying that the martyrs are already reigning because Christ is already reigning. Bear in mind what Paul said in the book of Ephesians, that Christians are already seated in heavenly places with Christ Jesus. He also reminds us there, that Christ who descended is also He who has ascended, and He had led captive a host of captives. These are the blessed ones who are reigning with Him on high. They will no longer die again because death has no power over them and they are the priests who serve God and are already reigning with Christ. John tells us that after that period there will be another resurrection for the remaining of the dead.       

Let’s just be aware that no matter how we interpret all these, no one can say it with absolute finality. One thing we must say with absolute finality is this: the victory of the Lamb is secured. And we are invited to share His victory through faith and patience. Besides, we must leave God to do what only He can do. The victory is secured and the victory belongs to the Creator God. Death will be abolished and a glorious way will be opened up for the saints to enjoy God’s renewed creation. Hallelujah, the Almighty God reigns!