Revelation 20:6

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Blessed {G3107} and {G2532} holy {G40} is he that hath {G2192} part {G3313} in {G1722} the first {G4413} resurrection {G386}: on {G1909} such {G5130} the second {G1208} death {G2288} hath {G2192} no {G3756} power {G1849}, but {G235} they shall be {G2071} priests {G2409} of God {G2316} and {G2532} of Christ {G5547}, and {G2532} shall reign {G936} with {G3326} him {G846} a thousand {G5507} years {G2094}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Blessed and holy is anyone who has a part in the first resurrection; over him the second death has no power. On the contrary, they will be cohanim of God and of the Messiah, and they will rule with him for the thousand years.

Berean Standard Bible

Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection! The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and will reign with Him for a thousand years.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Revelation 20:6 pronounces a profound beatitude upon those who participate in the "first resurrection," assuring them of eternal security from the "second death." This verse unveils the glorious destiny of redeemed believers, who are uniquely privileged to serve as priests of God and of Christ, and to co-reign with Him for a thousand years, signifying a period of divine blessing, consecrated service, and shared authority in God's unfolding kingdom plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Revelation 20:6 is situated within a pivotal eschatological chapter that describes the millennial reign of Christ. The preceding verses establish the narrative sequence: Satan is bound for a thousand years, preventing him from deceiving the nations ([Revelation 20:1-3](/revelation/20-1-3 "Revelation 20:1-3 - Satan Bound for a Thousand Years")). Following this, John sees thrones, and those who had been martyred for their testimony of Jesus and for the word of God, along with those who had not worshipped the beast or received its mark, are resurrected to life and reign with Christ for the thousand years ([Revelation 20:4](/revelation/20-4 "Revelation 20:4 - Saints Reign with Christ")). Crucially, [Revelation 20:5](/revelation/20-5 "Revelation 20:5 - The Rest of the Dead") explicitly states, "But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished." This clear distinction underscores that the "first resurrection" mentioned in verse 6 is a unique, specific resurrection of believers, separate from the general resurrection of all the dead that occurs later, at the end of the millennium. Thus, verse 6 serves as a blessed summation and declaration of the privileged status of those who partake in this initial resurrection.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Revelation was written by John during a time of intense Roman persecution, likely under Emperor Domitian, around the late first century AD. Christians faced immense pressure to conform to imperial cult worship, often resulting in martyrdom. In this context, the promise of a "first resurrection" and immunity from the "second death" would have offered profound comfort and hope to a beleaguered church, affirming God's ultimate vindication of His faithful. The concept of a "thousand years" (Millennium) resonates with Jewish apocalyptic literature and Old Testament prophecies of a future Messianic kingdom, where God's people would finally experience peace, justice, and dominion. Furthermore, the designation of believers as "priests" draws upon Old Testament imagery, where Israel was called to be a "kingdom of priests" ([Exodus 19:6](/exodus/19-6 "Exodus 19:6 - Israel, a Kingdom of Priests")), and is reinterpreted in the New Testament to describe the spiritual identity and function of all believers in Christ ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")).
* **Key Themes:** Revelation 20:6 encapsulates several significant theological themes central to the book of Revelation and biblical eschatology. The theme of **Divine Blessing and Vindication** is paramount, as those who endure persecution and remain faithful are declared "blessed and holy" and are granted a unique, glorious future. The concept of the **First Resurrection** highlights God's sovereign distinction between the righteous and the unrighteous, emphasizing a resurrection unto life and reign for believers, contrasting sharply with the later resurrection unto judgment. This leads directly to the theme of **Eternal Security and Victory over Death**, as the promise that "the second death hath no power" over these resurrected saints assures them of ultimate triumph over spiritual and eternal condemnation, a victory secured by Christ's own triumph over death ([1 Corinthians 15:54-57](/1_corinthians/15-54-57 "1 Corinthians 15:54-57 - Victory Over Death Through Christ")). Finally, the theme of **Co-Regency and Priestly Service** underscores the exalted status of believers, who will not merely be saved but will actively participate in Christ's perfect rule and mediate God's presence, fulfilling their calling as both kings and priests ([Revelation 1:6](/revelation/1-6 "Revelation 1:6 - Believers as Kings and Priests")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blessed (Greek, _makários'_):** From G3107, this term denotes a state of supreme happiness, profound contentment, and divine favor. It describes those who are divinely favored and spiritually prosperous, enjoying God's special blessings and approval. In this context, it signifies the ultimate well-being and privileged status granted by God to those who participate in the first resurrection, a state of profound joy and spiritual flourishing.
* **Power (Greek, _exousía'_):** From G1849, this word refers to privilege, force, capacity, competency, freedom, or mastery, and can also denote delegated influence or authority. When the verse states that "the second death hath no power" over them, it means that the second death has no authority, jurisdiction, or ability to harm or condemn those who are part of the first resurrection. This highlights the absolute and divinely guaranteed immunity of these resurrected saints from eternal judgment.
* **Priests (Greek, _hiereús'_):** From G2409, this term refers to a priest, someone consecrated to God for sacred service. In the Old Testament, priests mediated between God and humanity, offering sacrifices and interceding. Here, it signifies a spiritual and active role of worship, intercession, and ministry in the presence of God and Christ. It points to a direct, unhindered access to God and a role in His divine administration, fulfilling the New Testament understanding of believers as a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection:"** This opening declaration pronounces a divine blessing and consecration upon those who are raised in the "first resurrection." To "have part" signifies active participation and inclusion in this unique event. The "first resurrection" is not a general resurrection of all humanity but a specific, privileged resurrection of believers, signifying their spiritual vitality, divine approval, and separation unto God. They are "blessed" (divinely favored) and "holy" (set apart and purified by God).
* **"on such the second death hath no power,"** This clause provides a powerful assurance of eternal security. The "second death" is later identified in Revelation as the "lake of fire" ([Revelation 20:14](/revelation/20-14 "Revelation 20:14 - The Lake of Fire, the Second Death")), representing eternal separation from God and ultimate judgment. The declaration that it has "no power" over those in the first resurrection means they are absolutely immune to this eternal condemnation, guaranteeing their everlasting life and fellowship with God.
* **"but they shall be priests of God and of Christ,"** This reveals a core aspect of the resurrected saints' future role. They are not merely saved from judgment but are elevated to a position of sacred service. As "priests," they will minister directly to God and Christ, implying intimate fellowship, worship, and perhaps a mediatorial role in the millennial kingdom. This signifies a profound spiritual privilege and a fulfillment of the believer's identity in Christ.
* **"and shall reign with him a thousand years."** This final clause describes the active co-regency of these resurrected believers with Christ. The "thousand years" refers to the millennial period, during which Christ will establish His righteous rule on earth. To "reign with him" indicates shared authority, participation in governance, and active involvement in the administration of Christ's perfect kingdom, demonstrating their vindication and exaltation.

#### Literary Devices
Revelation 20:6 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Symbolism** is evident in the "thousand years," which represents a definitive period of Christ's earthly reign, even if its precise chronological interpretation varies among scholars. The "second death" is also highly **symbolic**, representing not merely physical cessation but eternal spiritual separation and judgment, contrasting sharply with the life-giving "first resurrection." The verse also uses powerful **Contrast** by juxtaposing the "first resurrection" (life, blessing, reign) with the "second death" (judgment, no power), highlighting the stark difference in destiny between the faithful and the unrighteous. Furthermore, the designation of believers as "priests" and those who "reign" functions as a **Metaphor** for their exalted status, intimate access to God, and active participation in Christ's kingdom, drawing on familiar Old Testament roles to describe a new, spiritual reality for the redeemed.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Revelation 20:6 stands as a cornerstone for understanding the blessed hope of believers, affirming God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people and the ultimate triumph of His righteous kingdom. It underscores the profound distinction between those who are "in Christ" and those who are not, demonstrating that salvation is not merely escape from judgment but an active participation in God's eternal purposes. The promise of immunity from the "second death" highlights the absolute security of the believer's salvation, rooted in Christ's finished work on the cross. Moreover, the dual role of "priests" and "reigning" co-regents elevates the understanding of the believer's destiny beyond mere existence, emphasizing active service, intimate fellowship with God, and shared authority in Christ's perfect reign. This verse points to a future where God's justice is fully realized, and His faithful servants are eternally vindicated and honored.

* [Revelation 1:6](/revelation/1-6 "Revelation 1:6 - Believers as Kings and Priests")
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood and Holy Nation")
* [Daniel 7:27](/daniel/7-27 "Daniel 7:27 - The Saints Receive the Kingdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Revelation 20:6 offers immense comfort, profound hope, and a clear call to present-day living for every believer. The declaration of "blessed and holy" reminds us of our identity in Christ, who has already secured our place in the first resurrection. This assurance should free us from the fear of eternal condemnation, allowing us to live with confidence and joy, knowing that the "second death has no power" over those redeemed by Christ's blood. The promise of reigning with Christ and serving as priests should ignite a passion for holiness and service in the here and now. If we are destined to co-rule with the King of kings and minister in His presence, then our present lives should reflect that future glory, marked by righteousness, faithful stewardship, and a commitment to advancing His kingdom on earth. This verse encourages perseverance through trials, knowing that our ultimate reward is not just eternal life, but a purposeful, active role in God's glorious future.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the assurance of immunity from the "second death" impact your daily walk with God and your perspective on suffering?**
* **What does it mean for you, practically, to live as a "priest of God and of Christ" in your current circumstances?**
* **How does the promise of reigning with Christ for a thousand years motivate your commitment to justice and righteousness in the world today?**
* **In what ways can you cultivate a deeper sense of being "blessed and holy" in your identity as a follower of Christ?**

### FAQ

**What is the "first resurrection" mentioned in Revelation 20:6?**

Answer: The "first resurrection" is a specific resurrection of believers who have died, granting them life and the privilege to reign with Christ for a thousand years. [Revelation 20:4-5](/revelation/20-4-5 "Revelation 20:4-5 - The First Resurrection and the Rest of the Dead") clearly distinguishes it from a later, general resurrection of "the rest of the dead" that occurs after the thousand years. It is understood by many as a resurrection unto life and blessing, reserved for those who are faithful to God, including martyrs and those who did not worship the beast. This resurrection signifies their spiritual vitality and divine vindication, granting them a unique role in Christ's millennial kingdom.

**What is the "second death," and why does it have no power over those in the first resurrection?**

Answer: The "second death" is explicitly defined later in [Revelation 20:14](/revelation/20-14 "Revelation 20:14 - The Lake of Fire, the Second Death") as "the lake of fire." It represents not physical death, but eternal spiritual separation from God, a final and ultimate judgment for the unrighteous. For those who participate in the "first resurrection," the "second death" has no power because their salvation is secure through Christ. Their sins have been atoned for, they have been declared righteous, and they are eternally united with God. Christ's victory over sin and death ensures that those who are His will never face this ultimate condemnation, guaranteeing their everlasting life in His presence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Revelation 20:6 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, for it is through Him alone that believers are made "blessed and holy," granted participation in the "first resurrection," and empowered to serve as "priests" and "reign" with God. Jesus Himself is the "firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ, the Firstfruits")), His resurrection being the guarantee and pattern for the resurrection of all believers. His triumph over death and the grave ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")) is the very reason the "second death hath no power" over His redeemed. Furthermore, it is Christ who has "made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father" ([Revelation 1:6](/revelation/1-6 "Revelation 1:6 - Believers as Kings and Priests")), fulfilling the Old Testament priestly calling through His own eternal high priesthood ([Hebrews 7:24-25](/hebrews/7-24-25 "Hebrews 7:24-25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood")). Our ability to "reign with him" is a direct result of His sovereign kingship and His gracious invitation to share in His authority, as we are already seated with Him in the heavenly realms ([Ephesians 2:6](/ephesians/2-6 "Ephesians 2:6 - Seated with Christ in Heavenly Realms")). Thus, every blessing, every privilege, and every aspect of the glorious destiny described in Revelation 20:6 is entirely predicated upon and secured by the finished work, ongoing intercession, and future reign of Jesus Christ, our Lord and King.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

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.

Revelation 20:14

And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

1 Peter 2:9

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Revelation 5:10

And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

2 Timothy 2:12

If we suffer, we shall also reign with [him]: if we deny [him], he also will deny us:

Daniel 12:12

Blessed [is] he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.