Revelation 20:5 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically from the Book of Revelation, which is attributed to John the Apostle. The verse states:
“But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.”
Context and Meaning
Context of Revelation 20: This chapter describes the final events of human history from a Christian eschatological perspective, including the binding of Satan, the reign of Christ, and the final judgment. It introduces the concept of a “thousand years,” often referred to as the “Millennium.”
First Resurrection: The phrase “this is the first resurrection” refers to the resurrection of the faithful who have died in Christ. In the context of Revelation, this resurrection is associated with the reign of Christ and signifies a time of reward for those who have been faithful to God.
The Rest of the Dead: The “rest of the dead” refers to those who did not follow Christ or were not faithful during their lives. According to the verse, these individuals do not experience resurrection until after the thousand years have ended, indicating a separation between the fates of the righteous and the wicked.
Theological Implications: This passage is significant in various theological interpretations. It raises questions about the nature of resurrection, the timing of events in eschatology, and the ultimate fate of humanity. Different Christian denominations interpret the Millennium and the resurrections in various ways, leading to diverse eschatological views such as premillennialism, postmillennialism, and amillennialism.
Encouragement for Believers: For many Christians, this verse serves as a source of hope and encouragement, affirming that those who have died in faith will partake in the first resurrection and share in Christ’s reign. It emphasizes the belief in life after death and the promise of eternal life for believers.
In summary, Revelation 20:5 presents a clear delineation between the experiences of the faithful and the unfaithful in the context of resurrection and eschatology. It is an important verse for understanding the Christian beliefs surrounding the end times and the hope of resurrection.