New Testament
Revelation 20:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. Earth and heaven fled from his presence, and there was no place left for them.
Compare translations
And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.
What Revelation 20:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, John describes a vision of a great white throne, symbolizing God's ultimate authority and judgment. The one sitting on the throne represents God, whose presence is so powerful that both earth and heaven flee away, indicating that the old order of things is passing away. This scene emphasizes the finality of God's judgment and the establishment of a new reality where sin and death are no more. The imagery of the great white throne suggests purity and justice, highlighting that God's judgment is fair and righteous. The fleeing of earth and heaven signifies that nothing can stand before God's holiness, and it prepares the way for a new creation where believers will dwell with Him forever. This moment is a pivotal point in the narrative of Revelation, marking the end of the current age and the beginning of God's eternal kingdom.
How to apply Revelation 20:11 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of living in light of God's ultimate judgment. It encourages us to reflect on our lives and choices, ensuring they align with God's will. We should seek to live righteously, knowing that our actions have eternal significance.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Peter's story: Andrew Brings Simon to Jesus (John 1:40–42)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Peter
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Revelation 20:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Revelation 20:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Revelation
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 20:11 mean?
Revelation 20:11 describes a vision of God's final judgment, where a great white throne symbolizes His authority. The verse indicates that both earth and heaven cannot withstand His presence, signifying the end of the current order and the establishment of a new reality.
What is the significance of the great white throne in Revelation 20:11?
The great white throne in Revelation 20:11 represents God's ultimate authority and justice. It emphasizes the purity and righteousness of God's judgment, highlighting that nothing can escape His holiness.
What themes are present in Revelation 20:11?
Revelation 20:11 encompasses themes of divine judgment, God's authority, the end of the world, and the establishment of a new creation. It highlights the holiness of God and the finality of His judgment.
How does Revelation 20:11 relate to living righteously?
Revelation 20:11 serves as a reminder of God's ultimate judgment, encouraging individuals to reflect on their lives and choices. It emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with God's will, knowing they have eternal significance.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.