Revelation 20:7

Revelation 20:7 marks a pivotal moment in prophetic history, describing the release of Satan after a period of confinement. This verse is central to understanding the sequence of events in the end times as depicted in the Book of Revelation.

Context

This verse immediately follows the description of the binding of Satan for a thousand years, during which time Christ reigns with His saints on earth (Revelation 20:4-6). This period is commonly known as the Millennium. The "prison" refers to the bottomless pit, or abyssos, where Satan was cast at the beginning of this thousand-year reign. His release signals the conclusion of this peaceful era and the onset of a final, brief period of intense spiritual conflict before the ultimate judgment.

Key Themes

• Satan's Limited Power: The verse powerfully illustrates that even the devil's activities are entirely subject to God's sovereign will and timing. His imprisonment and subsequent release are divinely ordained, not an escape.
• The End of the Millennial Age: "When the thousand years are expired" signifies the precise conclusion of the earthly kingdom phase, setting the stage for the final events before the eternal state.
• Final Rebellion and Testing: Satan's release is permitted to orchestrate a final, desperate rebellion against God and His people, detailed in Revelation 20:8-9. This serves as a final test for humanity and a demonstration of the persistent nature of evil.
• God's Ultimate Victory: Despite this final surge of evil, the narrative swiftly moves to Satan's permanent defeat and the Great White Throne Judgment, reinforcing God's absolute control over all creation and history.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "thousand years" (Greek: chilia eti, χίλια ἔτη) is the basis for the term "Millennium" and indicates a literal duration, though interpretations vary regarding its exact nature. The word "loosed" (Greek: luthenai, λυθῆναι) suggests an intentional unbinding or release, rather than a spontaneous escape, emphasizing divine permission. "Prison" (Greek: phulakē, φυλακῇ) refers to a place of secure confinement, reinforcing the idea that Satan was truly restrained.

Practical Application

Revelation 20:7 offers several profound implications for believers today:

• Assurance of God's Sovereignty: It provides immense comfort, knowing that evil, personified by Satan, is on a divine leash. God controls even the darkest forces, and their time is limited.
• Vigilance in Spiritual Warfare: While we await Christ's return and the establishment of His full reign, this verse reminds us that spiritual battles will continue until the very end. Believers must remain alert and stand firm against the devil's schemes.
• Hope in Final Victory: The temporary nature of Satan's release and his swift, ultimate destruction (Revelation 20:10) underscore the certainty of Christ's triumph over all evil. This provides enduring hope for the future.