What does Revelation 20:6 mean?

Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. Revelation 20:6

Explanation

Revelation 20:6 speaks about the blessed state of those who participate in the first resurrection, which is a topic shrouded in eschatological significance. The first resurrection refers to the rising of those who have died in faith, particularly the martyrs and those who have remained true to their commitment to Jesus Christ, despite persecution and trials. In this verse, they are declared “blessed and holy.” It is believed that they will be resurrected before a period known as the Millennial Kingdom, where Christ will reign on earth for a thousand years.

The “second death” is a phrase indicating eternal separation from God, often associated with the eternal punishment of the wicked. Those who partake in the first resurrection are promised immunity from this second death, signifying their secure status in eternal life. The verse also states that these resurrected individuals will function as “priests of God and of Christ” during the Millennium, indicating a special role in worship and governance. Reigning with Christ for a thousand years signifies their participation in His kingdom and the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies regarding the age of messianic peace and righteousness.

Historical Context

The Book of Revelation was written by the Apostle John while he was in exile on the island of Patmos, likely around 95 AD during the reign of Emperor Domitian. Christians faced severe persecution during this period. The overall theme of the book encourages faithfulness and hope among believers by presenting visions that proclaim God’s ultimate triumph over evil. The specific context of Revelation 20:6 arises in a passage that discusses the end times, the defeat of Satan, and the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives interpret Revelation 20:6 in various ways:

• Premillennialism posits that this verse describes a literal 1000-year reign of Christ following His Second Coming and the literal resurrection of the saints.
• Amillennialism views the 1000 years symbolically, suggesting the reign of Christ is presently occurring in heaven with the souls of deceased believers, and the church on earth is symbolically the kingdom of God until Christ returns.
• Postmillennialism often interprets the 1000 years as a period leading up to Christ’s return where the gospel will have a significant influence on society, although this view doesn’t necessarily equate this with a literal millennium.
• Dispensational Premillennialism emphasizes the literal fulfillment of prophecies in a future millennium but distinctively separates the roles and destinies of Israel and the Church.

Practical Applications

Revelation 20:6 can inspire contemporary believers to steadfastness and faithfulness, assuring them of their ultimate victory in Christ. It encourages a life of holiness and service, with the understanding that enduring trials and persecution has an eternal reward. Believers may also find motivation to spread the gospel, knowing the impact of their role as priests of God and participants in His kingdom.

Cross-References

• Revelation 20:4 – “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus…”
• Revelation 1:6 – “And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
• Revelation 2:11 – “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.”
• Daniel 7:27 – “And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High…”
• 1 Corinthians 15:52-54 – “…and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”

Language Study

• Blessed: The Greek word used is “makarios,” often interpreted as being blessed or blissful, signifying a state of happiness or contentment.
• Holy: The word “hagios” implies sacred, set apart, or consecrated, reflecting the moral purity expected of those who reign with Christ.
• First resurrection: “protos” denotes first in time or place, and “anastasis” refers to a raising up or a rising again, highlighting the timing and significance of this event.
• Reign: “basileuo” in Greek means to be king, reign, or rule; it reflects the royal authority to be granted to the participants of the first resurrection.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The notion of a messianic kingdom of peace is not unique to Christianity. Jewish eschatology has long envisioned a coming age of the Messiah’s reign, and Zoroastrianism speaks of a future restoration of the world. Several mythologies and religions have concepts of afterlife rewards and periods of divine governance. However, the particular Christian idea of resurrection and association with the thousand-year reign of Christ is distinct to Christianity.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science does not engage with prophecies or theological beliefs about the afterlife and the supernatural. The concepts described in Revelation 20:6 involve beliefs and promises beyond the scope of empirical science. While science explores the physical nature of death, it does not offer insights into the existence or nature of a “second death” or into the concept of a literal thousand-year reign.

Commentaries

Many Bible scholars and commentators have discussed Revelation 20:6:

• Matthew Henry views this as a literal resurrection of the saints that initiates the millennial reign of Christ.
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary suggests this verse reflects the exalted, spiritual status of believers who take part in the first resurrection.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament interprets the “first resurrection” as representing the new birth or regeneration through Christ.
• Some modern scholarship, informed by historical-critical methods, proposes that Revelation is primarily a book of encouragement written in symbolic language and that the millennium should be understood metaphorically.