Revelation 20:10

They will be tormented … forever: Rebellion against God has eternal consequences. Some find the idea of endless punishment disturbing, but Revelation and Scripture generally convey that God will deal strictly with sin and rebellion by those who reject Christ's saving work (see Matthew 13:42; 25:41–46; John 3:18, 36; Romans 2:7).

More than any other book in Scripture, Revelation shows that the unrepentant continue their rebellion despite the consequences (Revelation 9:20–21; 16:9–11; compare Luke 16:31). Revelation also highlights that God is just and deals with sin as it deserves.

Satan's attempt to defeat God's people ends with his fiery destruction. This passage has two main purposes:

1. to demonstrate God's complete justice, as Satan and his followers deserve punishment and will not change; and

2. to highlight the corruption of those who follow Satan. Even after witnessing Christ's rule for many years, they still join Satan when he is released.

These reasons form the basis for the judgment at the great white throne (Revelation 20:11–15).

This passage has three parts:

• the binding of Satan (Revelation 20:1–3),

• the reign of God’s holy people (Revelation 20:4–6), and

• Satan's release for a final battle attempt (Revelation 20:7–10).

Four themes emerge:

1. Satan's war is pointless—he cannot resist even an angel;

2. God’s holy people will be justified and honored;

3. God will achieve the final victory; and

4. even when sinful people experience Christ’s good purposes, they still follow Satan when he gains some freedom to act.

The drama reaches its peak: God's enemies face defeat and punishment in two episodes (Revelation 19:11–21; 20:7–10). Meanwhile, the faithful enjoy a 1,000-year resurrection (Revelation 20:1–6) followed by the final judgment (20:11–15).