New Testament
Revelation 20:3
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The angel threw him into the bottomless pit, locked it, and sealed it shut over him so he could no longer deceive the nations until the 1,000 years were over. After that, he must be released for a short time.
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And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.
What Revelation 20:3 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 20:3, an angel captures Satan and throws him into a bottomless pit, sealing it to prevent him from deceiving the nations for a thousand years. This signifies a period of peace and righteousness on earth, where God's people can live without the influence of evil. The sealing of Satan indicates God's authority over evil and His plan to establish His kingdom. After the thousand years, Satan will be released for a short time, suggesting a final test for humanity and the ultimate defeat of evil. This passage emphasizes the temporary nature of evil's power and the certainty of God's victory over it.
How to apply Revelation 20:3 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that evil will not prevail forever. It reminds us to focus on living righteously during our time on earth, as God's ultimate plan is to establish His kingdom free from deception and sin.
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Keep studying Revelation 20:3
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 20:3 mean?
Revelation 20:3 describes an angel imprisoning Satan in a bottomless pit for a thousand years, preventing him from deceiving the nations. This signifies a time of peace and righteousness on earth, highlighting God's authority over evil.
What is the significance of the bottomless pit in Revelation 20:3?
The bottomless pit in Revelation 20:3 represents a place of confinement for Satan, symbolizing God's control over evil. By sealing Satan there, it emphasizes the temporary nature of his influence and the establishment of God's kingdom.
What happens after the thousand years in Revelation 20:3?
After the thousand years, Revelation 20:3 states that Satan will be released for a short time. This suggests a final test for humanity before the ultimate defeat of evil and the fulfillment of God's plan.
What does the sealing of Satan in Revelation 20:3 indicate?
The sealing of Satan in Revelation 20:3 indicates God's authority and power over evil. It shows that God has a plan to protect His people from deception during the period of peace.
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