| The Binding of Satan,
Revelation Chapter 20 Verses 1-3 (NASB) Home New International Version New King James Version God's WordTM Español Deutsch
The phrase 'coming down from HEAVEN' implies that this takes place on the earth. Recall that since Revelation 12:9, where archangel Michael threw 'the great dragon' down to the earth, the devil (dragon) has been relegated to doing his dirty work down here (Revelation 12:10).
The ABYSS is a temporary place of incarceration for demons. As with the rest of the Revelation, it is both physical and symbolic. Physically, past scholars have indicated that the ABYSS was in the depths of the ocean. That thought has some merit, as we have previously made the case that water is the container of spirits. It was not a coincidence that "THE FLOOD" was used to purge the earth of evil mankind during Noah's time (Genesis 7:6-24). From a symbolic or spiritual viewpoint, the ABYSS was an awful place even for demons. The demons who were operating on the earth in Jesus' time begged Jesus to not send them to the ABYSS (Luke 8:26-31-39). During the fifth trumpet (Revelation 9:1-12), some of the demons from the bottomless pit were released back onto the earth. Whether their leader, Abaddon (Revelation 9:11) came back with them is not known. We do know that the devil will be bound and spend 1000 years in the ABYSS.
From a duality viewpoint, it is difficult to know what the GREAT CHAIN is physically. Many scholars say this is symbolic only; yet, strong binding forces at a molecular level could act like a GREAT CHAIN. Physicists are well aware how "sticky" water molecules are......just try to create a perfectly dry container. It is near impossible on earth. Symbolically, it is much easier to accept that the GREAT CHAIN is that which stops evil from existing/controlling the earth. Believers should be well aware of their STAND against evil (Ephesians 6:10-11-20). Individually, we know that we can bind and lose things on earth (and in heaven - Matthew 16:13-19-20). But to bind the devil will take an ANGEL with a GREAT CHAIN.
Symbolically, this indicates that evil, even as the devil is the embodiment of all evil, can be corralled; but it isn't easy. Humanly, we couldn't have LAID HOLD of the devil; thankfully it is Christ who strengthens and establishes us. It is Christ and his angel(s) who do that for us (1 Peter 5:6-11).
There is much discussion in commentaries whether the THOUSAND YEARS means a 1,000 years or just a long period of time. Considering how precisely time is given elsewhere in the Revelation (for example Revelation 8:1; Revelation 9:5; Revelation 11:3; Revelation 11:11 and so on), and that this exact time is used six times in verses 2-7 of this chapter, indicates this is a literal THOUSAND YEARS. Now having stated that, given all that has happened to the earth and solar system (Revelation 8:12 and Revelation 16:17-20), time may not be measured as now. That is, day lengths may be altered. We will just have to wait and see.
Some commentaries try to explain where the ABYSS is. Some think it is at the bottom of the ocean. That may be, given the case we have already made in this study that water is the "container of spirits". Others think it may be at the center of the earth. But from a spiritual viewpoint, the ABYSS may be right under our feet (Romans 16:17-20). Be aware, though, from the Romans portion of scripture, that it is GOD or his designated angel, in this case, who crushes Satan under your feet.
That there are NATIONS, implies that there will be political boundaries during the 1000 years. It will be a peaceful time but not a lala land or utopia environment. There probably will be work to do as the sin curse (Genesis 3:17-21) still remains upon the land until this earth is destroyed (Revelation 21:1).
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"Scripture taken from the NEW
AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, © Copyright The Lockman
Foundation, 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975,
1977, 1995 Used by permission." References to the Revelation of Jesus Christ are in bold italics. All other references are in bold only |